“The Weight of 1917,” from Anchor & Braille’s 14-track album New Mexico, stands out for its unique blend of “mariachi gospel” aesthetics, simultaneously referencing both the past and the future. This distinct musical style contributes to the album’s expansive sound, which Stephen Christian meticulously crafted to reflect his profound experiences in New Mexico. The track’s ability to juxtapose elements from different eras highlights the album’s broader theme of reconciling the past with present realities and future aspirations.

The song’s unconventional sound not only enriches the album’s musical diversity but also plays a role in the narrative exploration of contradictions. Like other tracks on New Mexico, “The Weight of 1917” demonstrates Christian’s commitment to creating an immersive listening experience. It contributes to the overall sense of a journey through different emotional and sonic landscapes, emphasizing the transformative power of the album’s namesake location.