TV Shows

Orla Gartland Collaborates with Matt Maltese for 'So Perfect' on *Trying* Soundtrack

· 5 min read

Orla Gartland Releases Collaboration on 'Trying' Soundtrack

In an exciting musical partnership, Orla Gartland has unveiled a new track titled "So Perfect," created in collaboration with singer-songwriter Matt Maltese. This song is part of the official soundtrack for the fifth season of Apple TV's acclaimed series *Trying*, which is available for streaming now. Gartland has penned eight original songs for this soundtrack, continuing a tradition of featuring various artists who support the show’s narrative. She expressed her immediate connection to Maltese when she first wrote "So Perfect," stating, “The collaboration felt effortless. I love the character in his voice and the tone of his lyrics—super dry, gorgeously yearn-y.” The essence of the song captures a longing for authenticity, urging listeners to embrace all facets of love, even the messy parts. It’s intriguing to see how Gartland’s work aligns with other artists like Guy Garvey and Maisie Peters, who have composed for the show in the past. This highlights not just a growing trend of artists contributing to television soundtracks, but also a unique platform for them to explore new creative directions. Gartland’s reflections suggest she has built a robust musical network, evidenced by her collaborations with Liang Lawrence and Martin Luke Brown, both prominent contributors to the *Trying* OST. She noted how writing with Liang felt instantly like being part of a band, creating a notable piece titled “Favourite Idiot” that explores themes of adoration and vulnerability. With her longstanding friend Brown, Gartland brings a dynamic energy to their joint effort "The Way It Was," a track about resisting change. What’s particularly compelling about this growing collaborative spirit is how it challenges the artist to push their boundaries and explore emotional landscapes often overlooked in individual work. You can check out “So Perfect” featuring Matt Maltese below, and be sure to dive into the full *Trying OST* available now on all major streaming platforms.

Tracklisting for the Trying OST:

1. Vertigo
2. So Perfect (feat. Matt Maltese)
3. Weird Time
4. Favourite Idiot (feat. Liang Lawrence)
5. The Power
6. The Way It Was (feat. Martin Luke Brown)
7. Is Love Enough?
8. At The End Of The Day
If you’re interested in experiencing this live, check out [ticket options for Orla Gartland's upcoming performances](https://ticketmaster-uk.tm7559.net/c/1321006/431519/7559?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ticketmaster.co.uk%2Fsearch%3Fq%3DOrla%20Gartland).

Records, etc at Rough Trade logo

Looking Ahead: The Musical Landscape

What's clear from the current wave of releases is the shift towards a more personal storytelling approach in music. Artists like Orla Gartland, with her album **Woman on the Internet**, are tapping into vulnerability and authenticity, resonating with audiences on a deeper level. This isn't just about catchy hooks or polished production anymore; listeners crave narratives that reflect their own experiences. Gartland's work stands as a testament to this trend, encouraging others to embrace their inner voices amid technological saturation. This evolution in the industry raises an interesting question: How will emerging artists navigate this landscape dominated by figures who have already found their voices? While platforms like Rough Trade highlight a new generation of musicians, it's essential to recognize the challenges they face in standing out. Matt Maltese, for instance, with his album **Songs That Aren't Mine**, probes existential themes—an excellent strategy for creating impact in a crowded field. Yet, the risk of being overshadowed by more established acts looms large. Now, consider this: The success of any emerging artist hinges not only on their talent but also on their ability to connect with their audience. As music consumption trends continue to evolve, those who can effectively harness social media and create a narrative around their artistry are likely to thrive. The emphasis on personal connection may be the key differentiator in an age where streaming dominates. There's plenty of room for optimism. If you’re working within the music industry, understanding these dynamics is crucial. New releases, like Gartland's and Maltese's, represent more than just individual projects; they signify a new chapter for music where authenticity overrules mere commercial appeal. As we move forward, the artists who can distill their genuine selves into their work are not just making music—they're defining a generation. In conclusion, as the musical scene evolves, the spotlight shifts more towards intimate, relatable content. The question we need to ponder is whether the industry can keep pace with the audience's shifting expectations. The next wave of artists might just need to remember that in the end, it’s the stories we tell—and how we tell them—that truly resonate.
Source: James Johnson · diymag.com