Fans anticipating a new single from Max McNown got an even bigger surprise last Friday with the unexpected release of his new five-track EP, ‘Both Sides of the Blade,' available now via Fugitive Recordings. What was initially teased as a standalone song has expanded into a stripped-back collection that marks a return to McNown’s acoustic roots. Written and recorded during the ‘Willfully Blind' era, the project offers a final, reflective chapter to that period of his artistry while still carrying emotional weight for him today.
The EP’s title track sets the tone with its stark storytelling and intimate delivery. “‘Both Sides of the Blade’ begins with a cold conversation over coffee in the morning between a couple who’s lost their spark,” McNown explains. “The song follows a romance gone numb and its desperate desire to feel something… anything… once again.” That raw honesty threads through the entire collection, which captures the push and pull of love, loss, heartbreak, and the difficult process of growing up. The songs also include a deeply personal tribute to McNown’s late grandfather, underscoring the project’s emotional depth.
‘Both Sides of the Blade' offers listeners a window into an earlier stage of McNown’s musical evolution, steeped in the Pacific Northwest-inspired melodies that first defined his sound. While more understated than some of his recent work, the EP highlights his lyrical vulnerability and authenticity, qualities that have helped fuel his rapid rise. At 24 years old, McNown has already had a landmark year: his breakout 2023 hit ‘A Lot More Free' recently earned a Platinum certification, while ‘Better Me For You (Brown Eyes),' from his extended sophomore album ‘Night Diving (The Cost of Growing Up),' is now certified Gold. Combined, the songs have generated over 500 million global streams and propelled him into the US Top 10 at Adult Pop Radio, with continuing traction at Country and Top 40 formats.
McNown’s live presence has grown just as quickly. In 2025 he made his Lollapalooza debut, following major festival appearances at CMA Fest, Boston Calling, C2C and more. He also delivered his first national TV performances on The Kelly Clarkson Show and The Today Show, adding to a momentum-filled year that shows no signs of slowing down. McNown also begins a sold out UK and European tour on December 1st.
Both Sides of the Blade is available to stream or download worldwide now.
