Ryan and Lindsey comprise the indie folk rock duo The Flip Phones, whose unique instrumentations and poignant lyricism create quirky songs with catchy melodies.
The Flip Phones have just released their debut EP, Better in the Dark. It explores concepts of humans vs. nature and darkness vs. light, among other themes.
“Better in the Dark is a short album,” Lindsey said, “but it packs a punch. Through the lyrics, we see majestic glaciers, fly along with a lonely seabird, and even take a trip to the moon.”
The EP’s opening single, “Man-Made Moon,” was inspired by a story about an artificial moon meant to help illuminate cities and light up the night sky. The song’s questioning lyrics, vocal interplay, and melodic themes set the tone for the remainder of the album.
“Man-Made Moon” is the only song on Better in the Dark where the lyrics were completed before any music was written. The music features Lindsey and Ryan singing alternate verses before joining their voices on the choruses and at the end of the song. Lindsey plays the piano and melodica, while Ryan plays acoustic guitars, electric guitars, and bass.
The EP closes with “Everything’s Gonna Be Alright,” an upbeat yet pensive song with some chromatic themes on the keyboard that lead to a slightly eerie feeling but ultimately assure listeners that all is well.
“We finished these songs just as the world was descending into the uncertainty of the pandemic,” Ryan said. “Even if people thought everything was OK, a sense of doubt could creep in. But stories of resilience emerged amid the gloom, revealing splendor despite sorrow.”
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