I’ve been following the experimental soul outlet Public Domain since their first release, “#AlcoholicBlues,” a few months back. The mix between literal public domain songs/ideas and modern sensibilities have been biting commentary on one hand and straight heat on the musical side of things. In other words, when there’s a release from Public Domain, I automatically have my ears glued to my headphones absorbing it.

On “#AllAlone,” Public Domain, specifically Ray Angry, links with soul singer Stout to provide a slight commentary on our relationships, with each other and with ourselves. And it’s all done with the sweeping dramatics of a Marsha Ambrosius track–until the ending minute or so, when a toy-like version of the melody starts up, possibly tying in with the group’s “Toyland” track from December 2021. But it could also be a showcasing of a philosophy that that humans, even as “mature” as we are/can be, still have “immature” desires and wishes (such as a need to be around and accepted by others). At least that’s my interpretation.

The great thing about abstract songs like these is that there’s no definitively right answer. That is unless, of course, Angry comes out and says “we came up with the song to say XYZ.” For now, check “#AllAlone” out below and support dope music in all its forms.