Pharmacists have long existed under the radar, much like a song waiting to burst forth from Tom Petty’s guitar. Their music isn’t just an ode to the likes of Tom Petty, Weezer, Alvvays, or The Ramones, but a celebration of the power of a magnificent chorus. This essence is beautifully captured in their new single, “Heart of the Nation.”
Pharmacists began as a creative outlet for William Porteous, the chief songwriter, to keep his sanity during a monotonous 9-5 job. Writing about grief, loss, and societal issues, William has played in bands from New York’s dive bars to London’s sweaty venues, slowly building a dedicated and growing fanbase.
Rising through the alternative-indie-rock scene, “Heart of the Nation” stands as an anthem with a powerful, lingering message. The dynamic project showcases a profound political depth, setting Pharmacists apart in the modern music landscape. With a vocal style reminiscent of Wreckless Eric meets Kurt Vile, William’s delivery is both raw and evocative.
Initially, “Heart of the Nation” wasn’t intended as a political statement. The song nagged at William until he sat down and wrote it, finding some peace in the process. Although the lyrics began as a tale of crushing love, they evolved into a poignant narrative about refugees seeking a better life. William’s confusion and struggle to understand the world are universal themes, and the song illustrates how easily souls can be corrupted by propaganda, money, and shifting political narratives.
Recorded at Plug Studios in Norwich, “Heart of the Nation” started simply with guitar and vocals before building up with bass, drums, and a touch of drum machine. This layered approach showcases Pharmacists’ multifaceted performance and drives the song’s intensity. The allure of alternative-indie-rock, blended with a seamless genre mix, highlights the sophistication and complexity of their sound.
On the release, Pharmacists shared, “I wanted to take a huge chorus and put something I believe in behind it. I wanted to leave something of myself out there.”
“Heart of the Nation” is now available for streaming and download. Dive into the powerful anthem and experience the emotional depth and musical prowess of Pharmacists.
