Only a few songs attempt to deal with the emotional complexity of divorce with real empathy, and even fewer succeed without cheap blame or melodrama. There’s something surprisingly mature and compassionate about Garrett Anthony Rice’s latest single, “Try To Make It Right (Our End Game).” The song, released June 22, 2026, is about a young married couple whose relationship is at the breaking point but who are still bound together by the responsibility and love they feel for their children. Rice emphasizes the difficult space between separation and reconciliation, not necessarily reconciliation as partners but as parents determined to hold onto what matters most rather than be in conflict. A hard-hitting song, very relevant and timeless in its treatment of a reality faced by thousands of families, yet keeping a personal, intimate perspective.
The opening of the song establishes a contemplative atmosphere that quickly draws the listener into its emotional core. The production values are polished but never sterile, always keeping the story at the heart of the experience. Rice’s songwriting demonstrates an insight into human relationships that penetrates beneath the surface. He captures the frustration, the disappointment, and the love that often lingers when a marriage ends. What’s particularly striking about the story is that the song recognizes that relationships are often far more complicated than right and wrong. The couple at the heart of the story may blame each other for their predicament, but they realize their children’s health must override personal grievances. And that consciousness is the emotional core of the song, giving it a sense of purpose that lingers long after the last note has faded.
Musically, “Try To Make It Right (our end game)” is built on beautifully crafted instrumentation. Special mention must be made of the guitar work, as it serves as a narrative and emotional guide through the song. Adam Phillips’ electric guitar adds texture, warmth, and expressive depth to the arrangement. The guitar parts are arranged to underscore the emotional content of crucial moments, rather than to show off technically and detract from the composition. Some passages are almost conversational, answering vocal melodies with understated phrases that boost the song’s power. It’s got a nod to the classic singer-songwriter tradition, but it’s all modern and fresh. Tim Wills’ atmospheric keys and effects add a cinematic quality to the guitars without distracting from the main story. The whole makes for a rich, sonorous environment, which supports the lyrics with remarkable sensitivity.
And the rhythm section is equally impressive as well. The drumming by Geoff Dugmore has a steady momentum, but in a way that is understated and suits the reflective mood of the song. Every beat matters, underpinning the emotional journey without being too self-conscious. The bass (Chris Webb) is low and constant, holding the arrangement together and adding to its melodic motion quietly. Much of the credit goes to producer Chris Potter for weaving all of these elements into a cohesive whole. Produced at the studios of London’s Kore Studios, Potter’s home studio in Bournemouth, and Dublin’s Darklands Studio, it’s technically precise and emotionally intelligent. What’s particularly striking is the use of gospel choir elements, recorded remotely over Zoom, a new way to bring an uplifting feel to the song’s climax. There are a few vocal layers that add a sense of hope and unity and turn what could be a one-dimensional story of sadness into an uplifting experience.
One of the things that makes “Try To Make It Right (our end game)” so special is the ability of Garrett Anthony Rice to balance realism and optimism. Rice’s view of divorce is more complex, often presented as the height of bitterness or despair. He sees the pain and uncertainty of it all but emphasizes the potential for growth, cooperation, and healing. He sings with such heartfelt sincerity that you believe every word, and he shows empathy, not judgment. The song’s message resonates particularly in a world of complex family dynamics, where children often find themselves caught up in adult conflicts. Rice’s view is compassionate and pragmatic, underscoring common responsibility and emotional maturity. “Try To Make It Right (Our Endgame)” is a thoughtful reflection on love, loss, and the difficult choices that define modern relationships. This single is one of Garrett Anthony Rice’s most engaging artistic statements to date, with its poignant storytelling, exquisite musicianship, and emotional resonance.
For more information, follow Garrett Anthony Rice:
WEBSITE – FACEBOOK – SPOTIFY – SOUNDCLOUD – YOUTUBE – INSTAGRAM
