Buck Meek ‘Ring of Fire’ Review: Finding Magic in the Mundane

Buck Meek has a way of making the world feel a little less solid and a little more magical. As a “gleaner of the forgotten,” he has spent his career tipping over the things we think we know—familiar sounds, common feelings—and finding something strange and beautiful underneath.

His latest single, “Ring of Fire,” is a perfect introduction to this headspace. It’s the first taste of his fourth solo album, The Mirror (his second with 4AD), and it carries that signature Meek blend of “tender power” and “immutable vulnerability.”

Making the Unknown a Companion

The beauty of Meek’s songwriting lies in his uncanny curiosity. He doesn’t just write lyrics; he conjures twin worlds where the mundane becomes unique. In “Ring of Fire,” the unknown isn’t something to fear—it’s a companion.

While most artists try to project confidence or provide easy answers, The Mirror takes a different route. It invites reflection in as a collaborator and treats “demons” like old friends. It’s an album that doesn’t claim to have the answers; instead, it looks at the shape of the question, valuing the search more than the destination.

What Makes “Ring of Fire” Stand Out?

• The 4AD Connection: You can hear the evolution in his sound—more atmospheric, yet still grounded in that raw, human touch.

• Vulnerability as Strength: There’s a quiet intensity here. It’s not loud, but it’s heavy in all the right ways.

• The “Mundane” Magic: He has a gift for taking a small, everyday moment and making it feel like a universe.

A Quick Look at The Mirror

Why You Should Listen

If you’re tired of over-produced tracks that tell you exactly how to feel, Buck Meek is the antidote. “Ring of Fire” is a song for the overthinkers, the dreamers, and anyone who finds comfort in the mysteries of life. It’s a reminder that we don’t always need to know where we’re going to enjoy the walk.

Buck Meek isn’t just making music; he’s asking us to look into The Mirror and see what’s staring back—even if it’s a version of ourselves we haven’t met yet.