Long Island-based band Lina Maxine are unveiling a more organic side of their sound with the single “Feels Like Forever,” released on March 27. The track marks a shift toward a warmer, instrument-driven approach that blends folk rock textures with indie-pop sensibilities.

The song opens with the sound of rain falling over South Shore waves, recorded during a storm at Indian Wells Beach. The natural ambience immediately sets a reflective coastal tone and reflects the intention behind the production, which blends Americana sway with touches of British alternative influence. The result is an upbeat ballad with a melodic feel reminiscent of classic Fleetwood Mac. The track was mastered by Grammy-nominated engineer Ste Kerry, known for his work with Sleep Token.

The studio version leans into live instrumentation. Acoustic guitar and steady percussion create a warm foundation while maintaining a polished modern sound. The rhythm section carries a subtle beat that brings to mind the relaxed yet precise percussion style associated with Fleetwood Mac recordings, giving the track both momentum and nostalgia.

Lina Maxine have also shared a stripped back performance of the song as an audition for the NPR Tiny Desk Contest 2026. Filmed in an intimate setting, the performance features Lina playing mandolin while Dean Aladay accompanies her on keys, allowing the song’s delicate lyrics and vocal delivery to stand out without heavy studio production. In live performances, the band often includes Parker Lyons on pedal steel, adding additional texture and richness to their sound.

From a listener’s perspective, “Feels Like Forever” stands out for its balance of atmosphere and melody. The arrangement feels full without becoming overwhelming, creating a dreamy and slightly psychedelic mood that suits the reflective tone of the song. Lina’s vocal performance is softer and more emotional than on some of the duo’s earlier material such as “Mango” or “Let Me,” yet she still builds moments of intensity that give the track lift. The layered instrumentation and steady percussion create a gentle forward motion that keeps the song engaging while maintaining its introspective character. It is a solid and memorable single that suggests a new step forward in the band’s evolving sound.

Dean Aladay wrote and produced the track and performs keys and electric guitar in the band. Lina and Dean first met in London and began making music together almost immediately, eventually forming a band on Long Island with Nick Sferlazza on bass, Jake Schott on drums, and Parker Lyons on pedal steel.

Over the years the group has developed their sound through regular live performances, including shows at Stephen Talkhouse and venues across New York City. These performances, which often feature pedal steel, have helped shape a style rooted in melodic folk and rock traditions while allowing room for bolder arrangements and expressive vocals. “Feels Like Forever” also marks the first release to feature both Lina and Dean singing together in harmony.

The single is the first release from a five-song EP scheduled to roll out across 2026. Another track will arrive in the spring, with the full record expected in the summer. In the meantime, the band plans to continue performing local shows and streaming live sessions from their recording studio while seeking opportunities to join upcoming tours.

About Lina Maxine

Lina Maxine is a folk rock duo featuring Santa Monica-born singer Lina Maxine and London-born musician Dean Aladay. The pair perform with a full band and record music on Long Island, New York.

In 2022, Lina and Dean toured the UK supporting Tom Meighan on a nationwide run promoting their debut EP Mind Games. The single “Mango” went on to gather more than 800,000 streams, and the pair documented the tour in a film featuring live performances from venues including Shepherd’s Bush Empire. The tour film was featured in Notion Magazine.

Inspired by the ocean and the surrounding music community on Long Island, Lina and Dean are now completing their next EP for release in mid-2026. The next single from the project, “Nightingale’s Melody,” is scheduled for release in April.

Author: Andrew Braithwaite

Andrew is the founder and chief editor of Music Talkers. He's also a keen music enthusiast and plays the guitar.