Boundaries Vocalist Matt McDougal Responds To Mix Debate Surrounding New Single “Skies Cast Amber Black”

Boundaries vocalist Matt McDougal has weighed in on the online discussion sparked by the band’s newly released single, “Skies Cast Amber Black,” addressing both criticism of the track’s production and questions surrounding the group’s recent signing to Sumerian Records.

Following the song’s debut, fans began debating multiple aspects of the release. Some listeners expressed concerns about the band aligning with Sumerian Records, while others focused on the track’s mix. The single was produced, mixed, and mastered by Drew Fulk, whose past credits include work with Knocked Loose and Disturbed.

McDougal joined the conversation directly on Reddit, offering insight into the band’s label decision and acknowledging the mixed reactions to the song’s sound.

“Really appreciate y’all for checking this out early — this sub has always been so supportive of us. I honestly look forward to seeing how you guys react to our art more than any other platform at this point.”

Explaining the move to Sumerian, McDougal noted that the decision largely stemmed from an existing working relationship.

“As far as why Sumerian, it’s pretty much the new Sharptone because the guy that ran that label moved to Sumerian and we went with him. We shopped labels for a bit, but real life we’d get responses back like, ‘they don’t make R&B music over low-tuned guitars or stream well enough — not interested.’ The landscape for places willing to take on what we do artistically is sadly not as wide as people might think.”

He also spoke broadly about current industry trends, suggesting many labels are prioritizing viral success over long-term artist development — a theme he says ties directly into the new single itself.

“More and more labels are looking for overnight-success TikTok bands they can rob blind and dump after a year, which is largely what this song is about coincidentally. So far they’ve been great to us, and we’re looking forward to making a home here for at least the next little while and using the significant step up in resources to make even cooler stuff.”

Addressing the debate over the mix, McDougal admitted the band didn’t anticipate such a divided response but welcomed the feedback from listeners.

“That all being said, we had no clue the mix would be so divisive haha. We spent months on it and really love how it came out. I’ve been listening to this song in my room since November and the mix really grew on me — maybe it will with everyone else as well? Who friggin knows. I can’t wait to be on the road playing it for you guys. We have so much more music locked and loaded.”

Despite the discussion surrounding the track’s production choices, McDougal’s comments make clear the band remains confident in the creative direction behind “Skies Cast Amber Black” as they prepare to roll out more new material.

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