Comfort Club Releases Breakup Album “Fear of Moving On”
Los Angeles-based Colin Tracey is an indie pop/rock artist creating music under the moniker Comfort Club. Initially a DIY venture during his college years, Comfort Club has been releasing music since 2019. After a hiatus in 2023, Colin is back with his debut album, Fear of Moving On.
FOMO is a breakup album full of sonics and lyrical influences reminiscent of inspirations like John Mayer, The 1975, and Death Cab For Cutie while maintaining Comfort Club's DIY ethos.
Across the album's ten tracks, Comfort Club narrates the story of a relationship unraveling and ultimately ending. In an Instagram post, Comfort Club shared, "I wrote this project from March to August of 2023 when I couldn't fathom someone not wanting the love that I had to give anymore...I don't have a killswitch or a quit button when it comes to love. Even if the oceans dried up and the sun burned out, I don't have it in me to say I'm done. And this album, in a lot of ways, became me searching for the answer to the question: is that the definition of love, or is that just the fear of moving on?"
The lead single, "Two Kids In A Trench Coat," portrays a bittersweet story of young love and heartbreak as kids playing as adults. With its dreamy pop essence, the playful lyrics and nostalgic undertones perfectly encapsulate the essence of Comfort Club's music.
The second track, "Sleep Fine," features a rush of indie guitars over a steady drumbeat. Although this track has a more indie DIY feel, its lyrics remain centered around Comfort Club's narrative. "I can't stand the thought of growing/Growing out of you would kill me every time."
Colin's songwriting skills shine on "What If You Don't," as he recounts the start of his relationship's decline on the "second floor of a Barnes and Noble," singing, "You're flipping through self-help books on the floor/Get to the chapter where you realize you can't love me anymore." Powerful imagery drives the scene, making listeners feel like they're standing in the bookshop with Colin overseeing the beginnings of the end.
Colin reveals his vulnerabilities in "Not Forever," singing, "I don't wanna be alone tonight, but I don't wanna be in love tomorrow." The struggle between desiring connection and fearing commitment is palpable as the buildup to the chorus makes the track an earworm.
"If You're Not Next to Me" continues with a rockier sound, detailing the further deterioration of Comfort Club's relationship. The track’s driving guitars and urgent vocals mirror the desperation and frustration of trying to salvage something that's slipping away.
In "Try," Comfort Club turns plaintive with acoustic guitar and piano, singing, "So am I an optimist 'cause I never thought to quit." This track explores the struggle of trying to make a relationship work while acknowledging the possibility of letting someone else try, despite not fully wanting to give up. "You're acting different, but I still feel the same."
On "What It Isn't," Comfort Club sings about learning what love isn't. "You never know what you're missing 'til it's gone/Nonexistent/Life goes on but I wish it didn't 'cause I don't know what love is."
"Playing Favorites" stands out as Colin leans into a rock sound, featuring a dynamic guitar solo. Over a heavier bassline, he sings, "You gotta cut to the chase and start playing favorites."
With piano and ambient noise, "Never Could’ve Broke It" returns to a lighter sound before building up with more guitars in the chorus, as Colin sings about not being able to break someone's heart because it was never open to begin with. The gradual buildup mirrors the realization and acceptance of an unreciprocated love.
The album closes with the title track, "Fear of Moving On." Finally letting go of the relationship, Colin sings, "We keep acting like we're still in love/It's the fear of moving on." The song encapsulates the album’s central theme of grappling with the end of a relationship and the daunting prospect of moving forward alone.
Throughout his debut album, Colin proves why Comfort Club is a must-listen. With ten tracks spanning indie rock and pop, Comfort Club tells a story of heartbreak that is both personal and universal, allowing listeners to connect deeply. The album's blend of heartfelt lyrics and varied musical styles showcases Colin's versatility and emotional depth as an artist.