Video Premiere: Daniel Ellsworth + The Great Lakes’ Backtracked “Control”

Daniel Ellsworth + The Great Lakes © 2018
Daniel Ellsworth + The Great Lakes © 2018

What does it take for a band to truly stand out? Sometimes, backtracking a bit: Daniel Ellsworth + the Great Lakes’ stripped-down version of “Control” captures the multi-faceted indie pop band reveling in their prime, captivating with a light and folksy rendition full of energy and heart.

Tell me your name
I could get to know you
What would it take
Just to hold you close?
Unlock the gate
Let your body move
Like no one else here
“Control” – Daniel Ellsworth + The Great Lakes


Atwood Magazine is proud to be premiering the stripped-down version of “Control,” off Daniel Ellsworth + The Great Lakes recently-released EP Chapter 1. The first half of the band’s forthcoming third album, Fashion (due out Summer 2018), Chapter 1 a shimmering, guitar-driven record packed with indie pop power. “Control” is a euphoric expression of desire and in-the-moment connection, packed with ecstatic synths and dynamic guitars take listener and band alike to soaring heights.

Chapter 1 - Daniel Ellsworth + The Great Lakes
Chapter 1 – Daniel Ellsworth + The Great Lakes
I know know know
My mind dissolved
Half hollow-eyed
In Los Angeles
Now wait wait wait
I’ll rearrange
I’m wide awake
On account of it

“This is the third video from our new Backtracked video series,” Ellsworth shares. “We wanted the challenge of playing our song “Control” stripped down – It’s so driven by the electric guitar and synths in the chorus that we wanted to see what it would sound like to play those parts on acoustic guitar and piano. Those things combined with the drum machine track and bass driving the verses give the song a whole new energy and vibe, which is the whole idea behind these Backtracked videos. To see if we can strip things down, add some new outside element, and create a completely new take on our songs.”

Daniel Ellsworth + The Great Lakes © 2018
Daniel Ellsworth + The Great Lakes © 2018

Stripped of the electronics as well as production wizard Kyle Andrews’ shining, the Backtracked “Control” has a raw, folk rock earthy element. Ellsworth sits behind a piano, wailing at the top his lungs. His raspy vocals feel warm against the Timon Lance’s acoustic guitar and bassist Marshall Skinner’s slow, throbbing strums.

Tell me your name
I could get to know you
What would it take
Just to hold you close?
Unlock the gate
Let your body move
Like no one else
We could get out of control

It’s very different from the EP version – different in a very good way. Stream the original “Control” video below and stay tuned for more enthralling delights from Daniel Ellsworth + The Great Lakes: Chapter Two of their Fashion EP series is coming soon!

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Chapter 1 - Daniel Ellsworth + The Great Lakes

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