Austin, Texas based singer-songwriter RJ Mendoza just dropped his first release of the year, “A.W.O.”, a warm, guitar-driven track with a touch of moody, gothic flair. It’s the first taste of his full length album slated to drop early 2026.
The new song lives on a steady acoustic rhythm, with vocals that feel honest, raw, and relatable. Mendoza recorded it himself in his home studio, leaning into a style that mixes folk storytelling with darker, at times, almost medieval vibes. And the cover art—cupped hands—fits the theme, symbolizing an offering.
Lyrically, “A.W.O.” is a love song, but not in the conventional way we think of love. Its imagery is a bit mythical—golden embers, sacred temples, and candle flames. The words paint a picture of someone who inspires not just attraction, but creativity and a sense of awe. As Mendoza puts it, “It’s a simple song that is catchy and joyful with a deep level of intimacy.”
Mendoza’s sound has been compared to that of Fleet Foxes or Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds. So if you feel at home listening to them, you will feel right at home with “A.W.O.”.
Mendoza also isn’t slowing down. His next single, “Forever”, arrives August 29 as he builds towards his full length album release later this year.
Listen to the new single “A.W.O,” out now.