Unknown Soldiers (Veterans Edition)
Press Kit
Download PDF Version
PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
The Higher Desires Release Unknown Soldiers (Veterans Edition) – A Tribute to Those Who Serve and Sacrifice
Seattle, Washington — Indie rock project The Higher Desires has released Unknown Soldiers (Veterans Edition), a powerful tribute to all who have served and sacrificed. More than just a song, it is a heartfelt salute — blending raw indie rock energy with reflective moments, including a moving section of Taps performed on electric guitar. Traditionally played at military funerals and memorials, Taps serves here as a solemn salute to the fallen and a reminder of the sacrifices made for freedom.
Every stream and royalty from the track is donated directly to charities supporting veterans’ health and well-being, making this release not only a musical experience but also a mission of gratitude and support.
Written and produced by William Walbaum, who also performs nearly all of the instrumentation, with guest lead guitar by Michael Stoican, the Veterans Edition stands as the definitive version of the track. It is longer, more expansive, and designed to give listeners space to reflect on the sacrifices of those who fought not for fame or fortune, but for freedom and our way of life.
“This song is for all the names we’ll never remember — there are simply too many. It’s a salute to everyone who has served, serves now, and will serve in the future.” — William Walbaum
🎸 Credits
- Songwriter / Producer / Performer: William Walbaum
- Lead Guitar: Michael Stoican
- Label: Def Garage Records
- Mixing / Mastering: William Walbaum
📰 Key Notes for Media
- 100% of royalties donated to veterans’ charities
- Includes Taps on electric guitar as a solemn tribute
- Extended “Veterans Edition” is the definitive version
🎶 Listen / Watch
- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rmWxSvqlfjo
- Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/track/4SKcewYVj7AjhP4ajpSRiR
- Apple Music / iTunes: https://music.apple.com/us/album/unknown-soldiers-veterans-edition-single/1781440390
📰 Press Assets
HD photos, logos, cover art, and press kit are available at:
👉 https://www.thehigherdesires.com/press/unknown-soldiers-veterans-edition
📝 About The Higher Desires
The Higher Desires is an indie rock project blending acoustic guitars, driving riffs, and socially conscious lyrics. Led by William Walbaum, who writes, produces, and performs most of the instrumentation, the band creates music that speaks to peace, humanity, veterans, and generational struggles. With a growing catalog of 14 songs, The Higher Desires capture moments of inspiration through music that drives with energy, celebrates good-time rock and roll, and reflects on life’s toughest challenges.
📩 Contact
Def Garage Records / The Higher Desires
📧 press@defgarage.com
PRESS COVERAGE & PRAISE
Honk Magazine
“With Unknown Soldiers (Veterans Edition), The Higher Desires show that songs can bring both energy and heartfelt compassion… the track combines the lively spirit of indie rock with moments of thoughtful pause, blending excitement with reflection… The band has committed to donating 100% of the royalties to charities that support veterans’ health and well-being.”
Good Music Radar
“Alternative rock proves to be the right medium here because its grit and emotional intensity amplify the weight of the subject matter… At the close, Taps played on electric guitar transforms a traditional funeral call into a siren-like echo, raw and haunting, lingering in the music as a reminder of the silence and suffering left in the wake of conflict.”
Lost In The Manor (LITM)
“Rock outfit The Higher Desires bring a hard rock anthem in their latest single, Unknown Soldiers — an ode to the people that dedicate their lives to protecting us… The vocals are very well supported by the guitar work, bringing an aggressive, almost Hetfield-esque sound to the fore… All in all, a winner!”
1111CR3W
“By the end of Unknown Soldiers, you’re left with more than music. There’s reflection, gratitude, and this lingering curiosity about what’s next. The Higher Desires are carving their lane in indie rock not just with riffs and vocals, but with integrity and mission-driven storytelling.”
HailTunes
“The Higher Desires deliver a stirring salute … a powerful tribute to veterans.”
Edgar Allan Poets
“Unknown Soldiers (Veterans Edition) is authentic and raw — a reminder of real sacrifice and the power of music to heal and connect.”
MusikePool
“Powerful with purpose — blending driving guitars, heartfelt lyrics and a clear mission to help veterans.”
Beach House Magazine
“Haunting yet hopeful — Unknown Soldiers honors service while crafting an indie rock anthem with intention.”
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