Chicago indie pop-rockers Push Puppets return with one of their most heartfelt tracks to date, the beautifully tender single “Probably”. Lifted from their fourth album “Tethered Together”, the song is a celebration and a farewell, written by frontman Erich Specht for his late basset hound, Louie. What could easily have been overly sentimental instead feels universal, touching on the kind of loss anyone who has loved deeply can understand. Musically, “Probably” is classic Push Puppets – melodic, polished, emotionally rich. The verses float with layered harmonies before opening up into a soaring chorus, where Specht’s lyrics strike with bittersweet honesty. The longing to send “one more message” to someone who has passed is simple and devastating. What really elevates the track is the string quartet, which sweeps in for a gorgeous instrumental break before lifting the final chorus to dramatic heights. The combination of guitars, strings and Specht’s vocal delivery makes for a moment that lingers long after the song ends. The accompanying video, with artwork and animation by Turkish artist Uluc Ali Kilic, adds an extra layer of warmth and personality. By centering Louie the basset hound, Push Puppets remind us that love and grief are not limited to human relationships – and that celebrating life is just as important as mourning loss. Produced by Doug McBride (Smashing Pumpkins, Veruca Salt), “Probably” is one of the standout moments on “Tethered Together”. Poignant yet uplifting, it’s Push Puppets at their most genuine – crafting music that makes you feel, reflect, and ultimately smile through the tears.
♦8/10
Dimitris Zacharopoulos
