Josh Westover is no stranger to introspection, but on Songs of Reflection, his latest five-song EP, he turns that gaze deeper than ever before. Known for his indie/alt-rock sensibilities and DIY ethos, Westover wears his influences—Radiohead, Muse, Coldplay, Massive Attack, and Pink Floyd—proudly on his sleeve, yet molds them into something uniquely his own. The result is an atmospheric, deeply personal record that balances melancholy with hope, darkness with light, and raw emotion with meticulous production.

We sat down with Westover to discuss the making of Songs of Reflection, and one thing became clear: this is the most ambitious project he’s undertaken yet.

The EP isn’t built around a single story but instead explores the fragmented nature of memory and emotion, capturing fleeting moments of heartbreak, anger, and cautious optimism. In our conversation, Westover described the record as a reflection on his 20s—a decade of transformation, uncertainty, and learning. Some of these songs have lived with him for years, waiting for the right moment to be fully realized, while others emerged organically during the recording process, shaped by the emotions he was processing in real time.

There’s a cinematic quality to the songwriting, as if each track serves as a different frame of the same film—one with moody lighting, abstract imagery, and an undercurrent of unresolved tension.

Westover’s previous work leaned heavily into the folk/singer-songwriter realm, but Songs of Reflection takes a bold step into more immersive, rock-driven territory. The production is rich and textured, layering atmospheric guitar work, haunting synths, and dynamic percussion that shifts between ethereal and explosive. There are moments that feel almost weightless—like floating in the aftermath of an emotional storm—while others hit like a sudden downpour, drenching the listener in intensity.

He spoke about the challenges of pushing himself to get every detail right—especially on one particular track, which took months of refinement before he felt it was complete. That dedication shows throughout the EP; despite being a solo effort, it sounds expansive and deeply considered, as if every sound was placed with purpose.

If there’s one thing Westover wanted to push himself on for this EP, it was the lyrics. He wanted them to be more detailed, more direct, more fearless—and he delivers. The themes of reflection aren’t just abstract ideas floating in the background; they’re woven into every verse, every chorus, every whispered confession and anguished realization. There’s a vulnerability here that makes the songs feel lived-in, like journal entries set to music.

What makes this EP even more impressive is that Westover did everything himself. The production, the writing, the recording—it’s all him, and the level of care and craftsmanship is astounding. This wasn’t just a quick passion project; it took years to refine, shape, and perfect. It’s a testament to his growth as an artist, his patience as a creator, and his commitment to making music that truly means something.

For those who have followed his journey, this EP is a revelation. For those just discovering him, it’s a stunning introduction to an artist who is only just beginning to tap into his full potential. Go ahead and enjoy our conversation, but also do yourselves the biggest favor by listening in full and following along for more.

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Josh Westover’s "Songs of Reflection" is a hauntingly beautiful dive into the past & future - Interview