Daniel Hayford – Lights Out (2023)
Making waves on the pop music scene, singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Daniel Hayford is quickly garnering a following with critical acclaim from international publications. Exploring the realm of synth-pop and electropop with honest, heartfelt, intimate themes, listeners can easily resonate with Hayford in a soothing sonic bubble. In 2020, Hayford released his debut single ‘Your Heart’, but he caught our ears with the 2021 single ‘I Like It’. Come with us as we delve into his latest offering ‘Lights Out’.
During his time in lockdown, Daniel Hayford took time to reflect on his thoughts, emotions and his identity at its core. Returning to the industry two years later, ‘Lights Out’ is his tribute to the self-discovery and growth he experienced during that time. Reflective, introspective and sentimental, ‘Lights Out’ intimately resonates with listeners across the globe.
Self-produced and recorded with collaborative mixing (Willen Binnema) and mastering (Stanski Mastering), ‘Lights Out’ has an elegant, sophisticated arrangement. Yet, while there is sophistication in the production, an equal element of rawness exists in the melody. Well-layered beats flow beneath soothing synths creating a bubble of electronic sound. Interestingly, while bold electronic beats puncture the tune, Hayford’s soulful vocals bring an intricate complexity in a smooth, mellifluous flow.
Hayford captures the most intimate and soul-stirring aspects of existence in his melodies. Using staccato beats with brash electronic punctures, he represents frustration, anxiety and fear. Yet, the brashness lifts during the chorus as Hayford brings a drop of hopefulness with his dulcet tones. Then it’s back to the dull drone of electronic instruments with their depressive mire – something many people can understand. You must not despair as Hayford leads you out with bright optimism proving how people can grow from pain.
Sincere, raw, authentic and emotional, ‘Lights Out’ is a sagacious synth-pop anthem to lift spirits and show the light at the end of the tunnel.
For more from Daniel Hayford, check out his Facebook, Instagram and Spotify.
This artist was discovered via Musosoup #sustainablecurator
