Queens-via-Uruguay songwriter Juan Wauters rose to internet acclaim as a member of the obstreperous rock band The Beets, one of New York City's most beloved DIY acts of the 21st century. In the time since The Beets' initial breakup in 2012, Wauters has pursued a more introspective, subdued sound, writing songs that explore who he is and how "he" came to be.
Considering his path from punk to poet during the past three years, "This Is I" is the quintessential Wauters song. The eccentric philosopher spends the song singing to his parents, alternating between subjective and objective pronouns as he contemplates how humans can't help but shape their offspring's identities. "How you doing? This is I," he sings, as if he's finally wriggled free of received wisdom after living 30 years in someone else's shadow.
Wauters' second solo album, Who Me?, is out May 12 on Captured Tracks.
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