We’ve been keeping a secret: Charlie Martin — who pillow core aficionados in the audience will know as 1/2 of Austin duo Hovvdy — is now a member of the Grand Jury family. His debut album, Imaginary People, is out in full today. Charlie’s gentle Southern tone paints in the timeless tradition of  Arthur Russel, Bill Callahan, Jon Brion, Elliot Smith, and yes, Hovvdy.

To mark the occasion, Martin has released a video for album stand-out “September.” Paste premiered the video today and profiled Martin, calling Imaginary People, “a character-heavy work of light, fresh indie.” Paste’s Carli Scolforo delves a bit into the background of the song which, “draws on Martin’s tendency to view his Sept. 1 birthday as a time to assess his life and progress toward his goals. While being driven and optimistic, the track deals with the pressures of trying to make it as a musician.”

“September is about commitment and staying on track. It takes a lot of courage to chase a dream,” says Martin of the song. “Sometimes you gotta pump yourself up.” 

We couldn’t agree more, Charlie. And that sentiment runs through a lot of the record. “I want people to hear the songs and feel comforted or lifted up. That’s always my goal.” Feel comforted and lifted up over on Bandcamp or wherever you stream music now. 

And for those inquiring minds out there, yes, we’ll have more info on what Hovvdy has been up to soon…