Our introduction to Dallas musician Nathan Mongol Wells came via his rock band Ottoman Turks. Their 2019 debut delivered some fun cowpunk and their 2021 follow-up rocked with a harder edge.
His forthcoming solo debut, however, showcases his gentler side. Among the better examples is the ballad “Taken for a Ride”. A pedal steel gives the song a country air as Wells processes a fractured relationship with sorrow and resignation. “If I knew someway to tell you something that might compel you to believe me when I say I didn’t take you for a ride,” he sings.
Says Wells about the song:
“Taken for a Ride” is a really important, personal song for me. It was written at a time and place when life was coming at me from all sides, and I was taking a real hard look at my choices and the consequences they’d had for my relationships. It’s a cliche, but it’s true – you always seem to hurt the ones you care most about, most.
Twangville is honored to premiere “Taken For a Ride”, the latest single from Wells’ forthcoming album From a Dark Corner.
About the author: Mild-mannered corporate executive by day, excitable Twangville denizen by night.