Frank Rabeyrolles – Naked (2021)
After several releases as Double u, singer-songwriter Frank Rabeyrolles is embracing an acoustic-inspired project. Hailing from Montpellier, France, Rabeyrolles uses a guitar and his voice to share meaningful tunes. The latest addition to his eclectic discography is the double-side single ‘Naked’.
Unsure of what I would hear, I approached Frank Rabeyrolles’ single without any expectations. I know, I should do that with all submissions but there are those artists I know well expecting great things. Frank Rabeyrolles is a completely new entity. Boy, am I glad I took a chance on this one!
From the outset, ‘Naked’ slides you into a cascade of harmonic vocals and guitars. Recorded on a two-sided analogue tape, Rabeyrolles enhances the rawness of the track. Yet, while there is a saddened sound, the finger-picking design adds depth to the already poignant lyricism. What I mean is, the single is far more than a few strums with melodic humming. It’s clear that Rabeyrolles knows what he is doing.
Filled with endearing melodic sound, the instrumentation builds a warm foundation for a comforting folk song. Yes, there is a strong reminiscence to Paul Simon, but the melancholic nostalgia is contemporary in its own way. Dulcet tones with an underlying hauntedness capture your heart and drive you to tears. The introspectiveness begins with the heart-wrenching ‘The light behind’; however, it comes full circle in ‘Optical Illusions’.
Beautiful in its barebones structure, ‘Naked’ has a simplistic sound and will have you weeping before its end. Get a tissue – you’re going to need one.
For more from Frank Rabeyrolles check out his official website, Facebook, Bandcamp and Instagram.
