Aaron Lee Tasjan’s latest record Get Over It, Underdog did not come about without struggle. Despite a Grammy nomination and a string of sharp americana rock records, he once saw little future for himself as an independent artist. With the help of his mentor Todd Snider, he returned to basics. By performing and writing solo more often, he regained his confidence.

The eleven tracks on the record are compact and purposeful, revolving around themes such as perseverance and self-reflection. During the writing process, he searched for the core of each track, inspired by Snider and his connection to John Prine. Tracks, in his view, should function as a mantra, something that can be performed repeatedly and continue to resonate.

That idea is reflected in The Real, a track that captures the essence of the record. With a singalong chorus and a winding guitar line, it offers a critical reflection on what is considered authentic in today’s culture.

In this track, Tasjan engages in a dialogue with himself and reconnects with his original drive. He focuses on music that supports people and aims to be an artist who both serves a dedicated community of listeners and reaches a broader audience. With this record, he rediscovers what once seemed lost.

There is little cause for concern: his mantras come across loud and clear.