Let’s set the scene: North Hollywood, CA, early 2025, a little studio dog named Nimbus wagging his tail around Sivraj Studios, and a dude from Upland, CA pouring his heart into a mic. That’s the energy behind “Train Tracks”, the debut single from Saint Nick the Lesser, and let me tell you—it’s not just another indie song trying to be deep. This one is deep.

Released January 22, 2025, “Train Tracks” might just be one of those rare songs that gets under your skin in the best way. It blends punk’s DIY soul, ska’s bounce, and anti-folk’s emotional rawness, all wrapped in the kind of storytelling that makes you feel like you’re sitting on the back porch with someone who really gets it.

From the jump, “Train Tracks” feels personal. Produced by Ryan Jarvis and Rob Maile (an old performance pal of Nick’s), the track is packed with subtle sonic layers that make it more than just another acoustic-punk confessional. There's real craftsmanship here—from Saint Nick’s gravelly vocals that dip into his lower register like warm whiskey, to the ambient textures and melodic highlights Jarvis and Maile weave in behind the scenes.

The song’s inspiration comes from a weekend Saint Nick spent with a friend in Fresno, who was going through some heavy, life-altering stuff. Instead of trying to fix it or give some epic speech, he just showed up. They drank coffee, walked along a set of train tracks, and shared one of those rare, quiet moments where being there says more than words ever could.

That image—two friends wandering aimlessly but together, while one is unraveling inside—is so powerful. The metaphor of walking a path that may not be ideal but still holds hope? Nick paints that moment with grace, empathy, and a bit of punk grit.

One of the standout choices on the track is the contrast between the third verse’s bassy vocal line and the airy whistling that follows. It’s that kind of contrast—depth vs. levity, sorrow vs. hope—that gives “Train Tracks” its emotional punch.

The vocal choices here aren’t just stylistic—they serve the story, and that’s where this release really shines. It doesn’t try too hard, it just is—and in a world full of overproduction and digital noise, that’s rare.

Saint Nick cites influences like Laura Jane Grace, Chuck Regan, and Frank Turner, and if you know those artists, you’ll definitely hear their spirit in “Train Tracks.” There’s a lived-in, gravel-road sort of poetry here—something that doesn’t feel like it was written for the algorithm, but rather pulled from journal pages and late-night train rides.

It’s emotionally candid without ever being self-indulgent. More like: “Here’s my heart. I hope it helps you with yours.”

In Saint Nick’s own words, this release leans more into tone and vibe than hard-hitting imagery. And honestly? That decision pays off. “Train Tracks” doesn’t rely on shock value or lyrical trauma-dumping. It radiates resilience and quiet hope. It’s a sad song that, somehow, makes you feel better afterward.

And that’s rare.

Plus, his artistic ethos—creating music to help people—isn’t just talk. It’s baked into every chord, every lyric, every production choice. He’s not here for the clout. He’s here because he’s lived through some stuff and wants to make sure no one feels alone in theirs.

If you’re in La Verne, CA, catch Saint Nick live at the Inland Songwriters Collective on June 3rd. And don’t sleep on his next single, “21 Minutes,” coming June 27th—an even deeper dive into his struggles with suicidality and the journey back. That one’s shaping up to be the emotional centerpiece of the full album.

At the end of the day, “Train Tracks” is a reminder that music can still be real, raw, and purpose-driven. It's a song that gives space, rather than demands attention. It’s as much about listening as it is about being heard.

If you’ve ever felt like you’re walking a path that doesn’t quite make sense—but you’re trying anyway—this one’s for you.

“Train Tracks” is available now on all major streaming platforms

Listen to Saint Nick the Lesser and other similar artists on our Spotify Playlist ‘New Music Spotlight - Indie & Alternative’

“Train Tracks” - Saint Nick the Lesser

“These Are The Times” - Social Gravy

“Game Boy” - YME