PREMIERE: realwell - “Honey”

Written by Jesse James Smith

Realwell from Cleveland, OH, has coined a new genre they call “Feelgood Sad Rock” and honestly, that’s the perfect description. Emerging onto the scene in 2022 with their debut EP “In Case You Were Wondering” and following it with a steady stream of singles, the band now returns with their newest track, “Honey.”

This was my first time hearing Realwell, but step one in being a great band is knowing exactly who you are, and they do. There’s a mix of older acts like +44 and newer names like Knox in their sound, and Realwell stands tall alongside both. If you’re into those kinds of bands, this one’s for you.

Honey lives up to its name; sweet, catchy, and uplifting. The groove-driven drums immediately set a feel-good tone that’ll have you nodding along. This pop-rock energy has been on the rise lately in the scene, evolving from the pop-punk roots that gave us bands like Honey Revenge, The Home Team, and Daisy Grenade. Realwell taps into that same vibrant swing while keeping a touch of the emo and pop-punk heart alive through their lyrics.

That contrast between bright music and introspective lyrics is what makes Honey shine, much like the band’s own tongue-in-cheek name, which hints at comedic relief. One of my favorite lines comes right at the end of the chorus: “I’ve been blue, but it’s better than being grey.” Simple, clever, and honest.

The release also comes with a music video/lyric video that’s visually clean, engaging, and effective, a perfect companion to the track’s energy. Overall, this song is a vibe through and through. Realwell is clearly on the right path, joining the new wave of emo-pop and feel-good alternative music taking the scene by storm. Count me in, I’m a fan. Keep the hits coming!