The Other Side Reviewstrack of the day

Track of the Day: Marshall Oakman – When Life’s Cold (2023)

When we last heard from Marshall Oakman, the US-based singer-songwriter brought us a high-spirited song with a significant message in ‘She’s No Doll, She’s A Woman’. This single was our introduction to Oakman, but he has been recognised, acknowledged and established as a critically acclaimed musician for many years beforehand. With natural talent as an artist, he has recorded and performed with the likes of Bruce Springsteen, Blue Oyster Cult, Steve Winwood and Bon Jovi… so, yeah, he’s not too shabby. Join us as we delve once more into his discography with his most recent single ‘When Life’s Cold’.

Joined by iconic New York-based musicians Paul Pesco (guitar), Kasim Sultan (bass) and Liberty Devitto (drums), Marshall Oakman blends classic rock and power-pop with a contemporary flair. Leaning toward the distinctive sound of the Beatles, a nostalgic tone flutters through ‘When Life’s Cold’; however, a sliver of jazz flits about through the instrumentation, particularly Oakman’s piano. While the legendary skills of Pesco, Sultan and Devitto are evident with the sophisticated flow of guitar, drum and bass, there is a slight rawness slathered atop ‘When Life’s Cold’ giving it an innocence in the elegant maturity.

While the melody can have you lying back, staring at the ceiling and soaking up its uplifting vibes, it is the poetic lyricism that adds something extra to the track. Shimmering as bright as the harmonious tune, ‘When Life’s Cold’ is a warm hug in a bleak world. It holds your hand as you confront your struggles, demons and despair reminding you that there is good in the dark.

Filled with hopefulness, empowerment and inner peacefulness, ‘When Life’s Cold’ is an anthemic song helping you reach the light at the end of the tunnel. Life may be cold but Oakman shows you warmth in his new single.


For more from Marshall Oakman, check out his Facebook, Instagram and Spotify.

This artist was discovered via Musosoup #sustainablecurator