Passenger Side - Water Street's new release 2026

Ace Sway
2 hours ago
2 min read

There is a specific kind of magic that happens in the quiet moments between places. For New Jersey’s own Water Street band, that magic has been captured perfectly in their latest single, Passenger Side, released today, January 28, 2026. This six piece ensemble has crafted something that feels both deeply personal and universally resonant, offering a masterclass in alternative folk with a soulful, introspective edge.

Written by lead singer and guitarist Dave Paulson, the track was born from the solitude of late night drives home after gigs. These were moments of reckoning where the silence of the road mirrored the emotional baggage he was carrying. Paulson reflects on the realization that meaningful connections do not simply appear by chance; they require us to intentionally clear out the clutter of our past to make a seat available. As the lyrics suggest, the song is a literal and figurative invitation to let someone else ride along. While the verses paint a picture of being alone with your thoughts in the dark, the chorus blossoms into a hopeful realization about budgeting space for deeper relationships.

On the song, Passenger Side is a lush, textured experience that rewards attentive listeners. The band demonstrates incredible restraint, allowing the song to breathe before building into a rich atmospheric finale. The arrangement features hauntingly beautiful electric guitar lines and a grounded, acoustic low end provided by an upright bass recorded in Philadelphia. Perhaps the most surprising element is the subtle addition of the banjo. Although Paulson once hesitated to use the instrument, guest musician Bennett Sullivan provides a twangy, sophisticated layer that adds warmth without overpowering the folk aesthetic.

This song is the definition of easy listening, yet it carries a heavy emotional weight. The male vocals are smooth and inviting, making it the perfect companion for a quiet afternoon or a reflective drive. Water Street has successfully moved beyond their roots in the northwest hills of New Jersey to create a sound that feels timeless. They remind us that healing is a conscious choice and that the passenger side of our lives is waiting for the right person to fill it. If you are looking for a track that combines honest songwriting with impeccable musicianship, this is one release you cannot afford to overlook.