When the Reign Starts to Fall is an introspective acoustic piece that showcases Ian Aaberg’s impressive fingerpicking skills and emotional storytelling. As the opening track of his four-song EP, it sets the stage for a reflective journey through themes of struggle, persistence, and change.
The song unfolds in three movements, mirroring a personal battle against stagnation. It begins in a key of major, introducing a hopeful yet contemplative tone. As the melody progresses, Aaberg’s intricate picking patterns create a sense of movement, as if striving toward something just out of reach. The final section shifts into a minor key, a subtle yet powerful transformation representing the weight of realizing things haven’t changed despite one’s best efforts. The transition from light to dark is executed precisely, making the emotional shift feel natural and deeply felt.
Recorded live, the song carries a raw authenticity. Each take is varied slightly, capturing the organic, evolving nature of Aaberg. The track’s title is a clever play on words, referencing the Roman Empire meme and a nod to Friends, inspired by Matthew Perry’s passing.
With this release, Aaberg proves acoustic music can be as powerful as any full-band arrangement. His ability to translate emotion into melody makes When the Reign Starts to Fall a compelling listen for anyone drawn to thoughtful, expressive instrumentals.
Stream it now and experience the journey for yourself.
