Aaron J. Burke – Phoenix (2024)
With a diverse range of influences, singer-songwriter Aaron J. Burke’s melodies might lie within the folk meets Americana genre, but he is far from pedestrian. Pushing boundaries of folk music to their limit, Burke is a rock ‘n’ roll soul shimmering beneath a folk-tinged sound. In a short period, Burke progressed from recording in his bedroom to streaming on Spotify turning heads far beyond his Irish borders. Considering his confident stage presence melded with intimate melodies, it’s clear why his following grows on a daily basis. The latest addition to his discography is the single ‘Phoenix’.
Following critically acclaimed singles ‘The Empty Kingdom’, ‘Count On It’ and ‘Could It Be’, ‘Phoenix’ is a concoction of alternative rock and indie-folk with hints of vintage pop-rock shimmering along the tune. Recorded at Roof Recording Studios in Dublin, one can hear Burke’s passion for music in the track; there is a sophisticated polish lingering within the song’s rawness. The acoustic element of ‘Phoenix’ enhances its intrinsic complexity with brooding haunting and genuine warmth.
Basic and barebones, ‘Phoenix’ is a simple arrangement laying Burke’s vocals atop his guitar. Interestingly, just as there is a starkness to the track, the emotion it evokes places listeners in a rush of sound shimmering with bright lights along a dusty road. Even more interesting is how the confidence of Burke’s guitar combines with his delicate rough vocals building a sound that is bold but fragile, powerful but subdued, and heartwarming but sensitive.
Like a phoenix rising from the ashes, Aaron J. Burke burns bright in ‘Phoenix’ celebrating new beginnings and self-discovery. This is my introduction to Burke, and I am eager to hear more from this unique talent.
In addition to the single, Aaron J. Burke released an official lyric video for ‘Phoenix’. You can view the video below or on his YouTube channel.
Find out more about Aaron J. Burke on his official website, Facebook, X (formerly Twitter) and Spotify.
Listen to more indie-folk tunes on The Other Side Reviews Indie Folk playlist:
