We recently checked out the  new EP Solastalgia from Philadelphia-based singer-songwriter BATTLEFLAGG. You can listen to “Solastalgia”, on Spotify Here and on Apple Music Here

BATTLEFLAGG, is the project of Philadelphia-based singer/songwriter, Jeff Hartwig.

BATTLEFLAGG was conceived in 2020 after demoing a new set of songs and feeling the need to regain some agency in an age of personal, social and political unrest. BATTLEFLAGG, is not so much a band but a collective of like-minded musicians and visual artists, formed during the pandemic to combat an age of creeping cynicism. With a sound that blends traditional rock instrumentation with ambient synths, drum loops and samples, Hartwig’s BATTLEFLAGG songs seek to straddle the Heartland/Americana/Indie rock divides, leaning into direct, heart-on-sleeve lyrics and arena-size, sing-along choruses.

BATTLEFLAGG , encompasses a sound and vibe that pulls from many different musical styles. We found ourselves deeply engaged and connected with every song . The new EP, “Solastalgia “ from BATTLEFLAGG, is a musical adventure you can’t afford to miss.

Solastalgia is defined by philosopher Glenn Albrecht in his 2005 article on the subject as “the homesickness you have when you are still at home,” where you may find your home environment changing in distressing ways. It is a lived evanescence of what you have always known, like standing in one place as the life, memories and places fade away.  Unlike nostalgia, solastalgia is distressing and is often attributed to environmental or other changes completely out of one’s control.”

Produced by Daniel Knowles (Sharon Van Etten, Cigarettes After Sex) the music is inspired by the missed connections while one’s known world disappears into the rearview.

It is crystal clear from listening to “Solastalgia” that Hartwig, has poured his heart and soul into it . The opening track “Ghost” ( which served as the first single) is hauntingly beautiful track .

The second track “I Gotta Love” , has a very upbeat and uplifting feel that is almost gospel like . We also loved the “slow burn mix” of “I Gotta Love” it’s always cool to get different versions of a track. “I Gotta Love “ is definitely a memorable groove that will get you moving.

The title track “Solastalgia” ( 4 a.m. version) is absolute singer-songwriter triumph. Sometimes a song comes along that has a profound effect on the listener, “Solastalgia (4 a.m version) is absolutely one of the songs. Everything on the song is pure perfection.

You need to check out the new EP “Solastalgia” from BATTLEFLAGG, you will thank us later.