The Alternate Routes are the band that helped us to remember “we are how we treat each other, and nothing more.” Now they’re back with a new single, “Safe Haven”—a love song that uses real life as its backdrop.

“Nothing More” propelled the band into new ears and new heights, having been featured prominently in the 2014 Winter Olympics, on NCIS, and in a partnership with TOMS shoes. It was followed up with “Somewhere in America,” a poignant and personal conversation about gun violence that earned the band a 2016 Independent Music Award and a visit to the White House.

“Safe Haven” continues the socially-conscious, no-hold-barred examination on modern living that the band has increasingly embraced. It reflects an evolution and maturity that results from sticking together and trying new things, musically and lyrically, for over a decade.

“Sitting down with someone you love and trying to convince them, and yourself, to keep pushing forward, to face your fears and stay strong, is a sentiment that I hope many people can relate to,” says guitarist, Eric Donnelly.

“Safe Haven” was self-produced by Donnelly, drummer and engineer Kurt Leon, and singer Tim Warren, a sonic departure from previous efforts that highlights the use of the recording studio itself as an instrument. It was mixed by fellow Bridgeport, Connecticut native Peter Katis (The National, Interpol, The Swell Season).

The Alternate Routes first burst onto the scene in 2005 with their breakthrough album Good and Reckless and True. They released several albums on Vanguard Records and on their own, toured extensively, and relentlessly refined their craft. They have collaborated with such seemingly disparate artists as singer-songwriter Patti Griffin, director Lisa Cholodenko (The Kids Are All Right), and guitarist Carl Broemel of My Morning Jacket. They’ve performed on “The Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson,” “Late Night with Conan O’Brien,” and have been repeat guests on NPR’s “Mountain Stage.”