SINGLE REVIEW: Fox Royale is “Almost There”

March 7 saw the release of “Almost There” by indie pop band Fox Royale. The trio, made up of lead vocalist Nate Hurley, bassist Caleb Hurley, and guitarist Mario Nunzio DiBartolomeo, launched the single not long after finishing their support of Nashville-based group The Wldlfe on the third leg of the “A Place Where You Are” Tour. I was lucky enough to see their set a healthy five times and acquaint myself with these talented and captivating musicians.

Fox Royale: Nate Hurley (red), Caleb Hurley (yellow), Mario Nunzio DiBartolomeo (blue/white). Photo credit: Robert Bustamante

“Almost There” encapsulates what it feels like to be a touring musician trying to balance personal life with work life. After all, being a musician is a job, an emotionally and physically demanding one at that. Fox Royale expresses that in their lyrics, telling us that while they feel like they’re “coming unglued,” they aren’t going to give up working on their dreams. The pressure the band is experiencing is not going to deter them from succeeding.

Fox Royale at the Winchester Music Tavern in Lakewood, OH. Photo credit: Abiageal Filon

“I can’t stop yet / I’m almost there. Expect me to quit / But I don’t care. Throwin’ in with thieves and liars / Steal your cash and slash your tires. I can’t stop yet / I’m not quite there”

The bridge of the single expresses that while they are still going to pursue their passion of making and playing music, they are not going to sell themselves out and become a “money machine.” They don’t want to be grouped in with “thieves and liars,” assumably referring to other artists in the scene who may only be in it for money, fame, and power. This sentiment is one shared by many musicians wanting to be known for their genuinity and passion.

“Get lost, give up / You’re all in and I’m not Oh I’ll never be / I’m not your money machine”

“Almost There” has a sound reminiscent of 2000s pop punk and power pop with its electronic drums, synth waves, and upbeat electric guitar. The sound reminds me of early Never Shout Never, specifically their “Yippee” EP, which was released in 2008. The beautifully nostalgic feeling I get from hearing this song is strong despite it just having been released. It sounds like it belongs in the first scene of a coming-of-age film where the main character slams their hand onto their alarm, groans, and says something about it being their first day at a new high school. To me, that feeling makes a song absolutely flawless.

Fox Royale has had a busy past few years, and “Almost There” tells us that they aren’t slowing down any time soon. On April 4, they are supporting Colony House at Liberty University in Lynchburg, VA. In June, they are playing two festivals: Nightfall Concert Series in Chattanooga, TN on June 6, and Somewhere Fest in Wichita, KS on June 14. The group is also playing Mile of Music Fest in Appleton, WI on July 31 and August 1 and 2.

“Almost There” is available for streaming on platforms like Apple Music and Spotify. Keep an eye out for more new releases and 2025 tour dates from Fox Royale– you won’t want to miss them!