Pedro the Lion – Modesto

“Modesto,” by Pedro the Lion, is more than just a song; it’s a deeply personal tale that charts a significant period of transition in the protagonist’s life, blending indie rock with emotional storytelling. The track delves into the experiences of staying behind to finish high school amidst family upheavals, leading to a six-month stay in Modesto that would become a pivotal chapter in his life. It’s here, after a brief stint selling vacuum cleaners and a revelatory encounter in a guitar store, that the first Pedro the Lion songs are born. This narrative, rich with themes of love, longing, and the catharsis of music, captures a moment of profound personal growth and artistic awakening. The song encapsulates the essence of pushing through doubt and hardship to find one’s voice and path, culminating in a resolve to pursue music and authenticity back in Seattle.