AO GRYVE – Fox & Crow (ft. Feels Like Honey) (2021)
Using an anagram for the word “voyager”, AO GRYVE is a US-based singer-songwriter constantly exploring sound and the human condition. The brainchild of multi-instrumentalist Joshua Jandreau, AO GRYVE is an eclectic melding of folk-pop, soul, and indie-pop. Reminiscent of Citizen Cope, John Legend, and Hozier, this innovative artist easily ensnares your senses with each song he releases.
Performing at numerous festivals across the globe for the last six years (give or take), AO GRYVE has reached audiences on an international level. Not only has he reached different listeners but he has connected with various musicians including the indie-classical artist Hannah Boissonneault. Combining their classical, folk and indie-pop styles, the duo presents the eclectic single ‘Fox & Crow’.
Inspired by the traditional tale of the fox and the crow, ‘Fox & Crow’ touches on their lives in old age as they reflect on past happenings. In the story, “the fox tricks the crow playing to its vanity and stealing its food”; however, this occurred when they were young and AO GRYVE looks at the animals in retrospect. Personifying the fox and crow, the eclectic song touches on emptiness, apathy, despondency, resignation, and desperation – something most people feel after living a life they regret. Yet, while each has a disappointing perspective of themselves, the story results in a companionship pointing out that there is a light at the end of the tunnel…even if it is completely unexpected.
The profound lyrical content does contribute to the compelling nature of ‘Fox & Crow’, but it is the execution that enhances the emotional aspect. The inclusion of Hannah’s vocals contributes to a conversational narrative where one is the crow and the other the fox. The interaction between the individuals is endearing and acts as an imaginative play making ‘Fox & Crow’ that much more “real” (for lack of a better word). Lively and cheerful, despite the melancholic vulnerability of the characters, ‘Fox & Crow’ finds the balance between mournful nostalgia and optimistic joy.
For more from AO GRYVE check out his official website, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Spotify.
