Victoria singer-songwriter Matt Goud, better known as Northcote, has built a reputation over the past fifteen years for songs that linger long after the last note fades. Since launching his project in 2008, Goud has toured relentlessly across North America and Europe, performing over 1,000 shows and sharing stages with acts like The Gaslight Anthem, Frank Turner, and Hot Water Music. His storytelling—resonant, heartfelt, and grounded in human connection—has earned him a devoted following that continues to grow with each release.
Now, Northcote returns with “Alternate Universe,” the lead single from his upcoming full-length album To Cherish, recorded at Vancouver’s Rain City Studios with producer Jesse Gander (Japandroids, White Lung). The track finds Goud navigating the emotional fallout of a long-term relationship, reflecting on endings, renewal, and the strange ways life can pivot when we least expect it.
Musically, “Alternate Universe” balances intimacy with expansiveness. Stephen McGillvray’s guitar work provides a textured foundation, while percussionist Mike Battle and bassist Eric Paone fill out the rhythm section without ever overshadowing Goud’s vocals. The production, guided by Gander, keeps the song dynamic yet immediate—capturing the energy of Northcote’s signature duo touring setup while layering a richness that elevates the track beyond live replication.
Lyrically, the single hits with the honesty fans have come to expect: a confessional narrative that examines grief and hope with equal measure. Goud’s voice, warm and expressive, carries both melancholy and resilience, making “Alternate Universe” feel both personal and universal. It’s a song that invites listeners to reflect on their own experiences while offering a sense of connection that has long been Northcote’s trademark.
With seven studio albums behind him, a tireless touring ethos, and more than 42,000 monthly Spotify listeners, Goud continues to solidify his place in the indie-rock landscape. “Alternate Universe” is a promising glimpse of what To Cherish has in store—a collection of songs that wrestle with life’s difficulties but ultimately celebrate its enduring beauty.
