The best indie-rock usually has a bit of dirt under its fingernails and a lot of heart behind it. That’s exactly what Always Jim—the project led by songwriter Kostromin—brings to the table with his latest single, “Colour Me”

Named as a tribute to his late best friends, Scotty and Bruce, Always Jim is more than just a stage name; it’s a way to keep their memory moving. After a long stretch of locking himself in the studio, Kostromin is coming out swinging with a sound that feels both massive and deeply personal.

A Sound Built on Connection

What makes Always Jim stand out in a crowded indie scene is the “rotating collective” approach. Kostromin brings in top-tier session players to flesh out his sharp songwriting, turning “Colour Me” into a track that feels alive and collaborative rather than just another solo project. It’s got that signature grit he’s known for, but there’s a new level of confidence here that only comes after a prolific season of writing.

Why “Colour Me” Hits Different

It’s easy to write a catchy hook, but it’s harder to write one that actually means something. “Colour Me” manages to do both. It balances that “stadium-ready” rock energy with the kind of vulnerability you only get when you’re writing for people you’ve lost.

• Sharp, No-Nonsense Lyrics: Kostromin doesn’t waste words. Every line feels intentional.

• Musicianship: You can hear the caliber of the session talent in the tightness of the rhythm and the layers of the production.

• The Tribute: Knowing the name “Always Jim” honors his friends adds a layer of weight to the track that makes it feel like more than just a three-minute song.

Looking Ahead

“Colour Me” is the first of two heavy-hitting singles Kostromin is dropping, and if this is the benchmark, we’re in for a hell of a ride. It’s a bold reminder that even when things get heavy, you can still find a way to turn that energy into something vibrant.