Scott Clay captures history in his latest single "The Compass and the Wheel"

Scott Clay's new single, "The Compass and the Wheel," is a powerful track that takes listeners to the harsh Arctic and weaves history and emotion into every note. The song is based on Hampton Sides' true story book, In the Kingdom of Ice. It tells the story of the USS Jeanette's risky trip from San Francisco to Europe, during which it sought a way to reach the North Pole. Clay's story is mostly about DeLong's letters to his wife, Emma, in Brooklyn, which he wrote while stuck on ice floes for two years. They show how strong and weak the human spirit can be.

Clay hired a great group of session musicians to play the story at Nashville's Farmland Studios. Guthrie Trapp's guitar lines move like icy currents, Steve Mackey's bass keeps the tension and hope going with a steady beat, and Greg Morrow's drums add a subtle touch of drama to the story of survival.

Clay's ability to mix history with modern music is what makes "The Compass and the Wheel" stand out. He doesn't just tell stories, he takes the listener to places of loneliness, determination, and desire. Scott Clay's new single is a guide for people who want music that connects history and feelings. It has a mix of adventure, art, and sadness that stays with you long after the last note.

Scott Clay · The Compass and The Wheel