Dreaming Down the Open Road

GOODTWIN’s “Shortcuts” feels like the musical equivalent of taking the scenic route and discovering that the longer way was exactly what you needed. Led by Augusta “Gus” Alexander, the Los Angeles-based alternative pop project turns an old bedroom idea into something wonderfully airy, playful, and alive.

From the opening moments, percussion gives the track an easy-moving pulse, creating a groove that never feels forced. Over it, layered harmonies add warmth and depth, giving the song a soft, almost floating quality. The standout touch, however, is the expressive saxophone, which slips through the arrangement with a wonderfully free-flowing character. It adds personality without overwhelming the song, making the whole experience feel spontaneous and slightly mischievous.

There is also a lovely sense of movement in “Shortcuts.” The arrangement gradually opens up, allowing its dreamy atmosphere to breathe before a whimsical bridge adds another shade to the track. Rather than relying on dramatic shifts, GOODTWIN builds its appeal through texture, rhythm, and small details that reveal themselves naturally.

What makes the song especially inviting is its balance. It feels nostalgic without sounding dated, polished without losing its looseness, and dreamy without drifting away completely. There is a soulful, retro warmth beneath its alternative-pop surface that gives the track plenty of character.

As the first glimpse of the upcoming Soft Serve EP, “Shortcuts” is an enticing introduction. It leaves you with the feeling that GOODTWIN is just getting started—and that the journey ahead could be wonderfully unpredictable.