Roadside Picnic EP
The Dawn Roar
-
Roadside Picnic 3:290:00/3:29
-
The Car 2:370:00/2:37
-
Dylan Had It Right 2:480:00/2:48
-
Wildflowers 3:180:00/3:18
-
The Rooftop 4:470:00/4:47
PD Johnson is an English songwriter and producer, releasing indie songs as The Dawn Roar. He is joined on the road by Nick Tilling (bass) and Lee Jenkins (drums).
After completing a masters in Songwriting and Music Production, 2026 is proving to be a busy year for Paul. Having already released five singles so far this year, another five are planned which by 31st July will form the Roadside Picnic EP.
The Rooftop, a pensive indie folk track inspired by early Bon Iver and reminiscent of Novo Amor and Hazlett. It juxtaposes romance and depression, staring out at the skyline and the stars from a city rooftop, contemplating life. It builds gently, landing you softly in the end. (Release date: 08/05/26)
Wildflowers is laden with a noughties indie groove, pulsing bass guitar and snappy drums. Taking its cue from the likes of The Shins and Broken Bells, with a hint of Tame Impala psychedelia, the song was inspired by a conversation Paul had with his son while out walking one day, pondering love as only dandelion seeds can. (Release date: 29/05/26)
Dylan Had it Right draws you in with a lo-fi folk strum, crackling like an old radio before opening into full audio technicolour. Looking out towards the state of the world, the lyrics and production carry you from darkness to light. Complete with military drum rolls and gorgeous melody, the song reflects on these a-changin’ times with compassion. (Release date: 19/06/26)
After teasing a lo-fi influence in Dylan had it right, The Car adds wonky keys to its indie-folk goodness. Paul tells of a sleepless night after his wife’s beloved car was written off. Contemplating her loss, a metaphor for making the most of life lurks somewhere in the darkness. (Release date: 10/07/26)
Roadside Picnic opens the EP, a track inspired by the novel of the same name, and a Jeff Tweedy songwriting exercise. Gritty telecaster and distorted drums propel this song of addiction to the brink, and promises to be a great track to experience live. (Release date: 31/07/26)
EMAIL: PAUL@THEDAWNROAR.COM