Los Angeles indie pop duo After, made up of Graham Epstein and Justine Dorsey, has just released their new single "Outbound," which follows their 2025 self-titled debut EP and their introspective track "Deep Diving." "Outbound" is accompanied by a vibrant music video directed by Nathan Castiel. The song is a cheerful anthem that feels both thoughtful and refreshing.
The creation of "Outbound" was a collaborative effort between Alex Craig, Epstein, and Dorsey. Craig produced it, along with the group Photographic Memory. Initially titled "Morning," the song went through several changes over the past year before transforming into its current upbeat sound. Inspired by the happy, carefree vibe of early 2000s artists like Michelle Branch and Hilary Duff, After aimed to capture the essence of a feel-good moment, making it the kind of song you could picture during fun times with friends on road trips or warm summer nights.
From the very start, Epstein's guitar playing and Dorsey's soft vocals create an uplifting atmosphere filled with positivity. Their chemistry shines through in their music, making it feel both personal and expansive. When you listen, it feels like you're part of the journey they invite you on. The song is catchy without overwhelming the listener, leaving you humming its tunes long after it ends.
The music video mirrors the joyful spirit of the song with playful visuals and a stylish indie look that fits perfectly with After's unique sound. Both the song and video convey a sense of movement and growth, a fitting theme for a track called "Outbound."