I Panic – Will You Still (2024)
‘Will You Still’, the latest release by I Panic, is a masterful blend of classical, pop, and theatrical elements, delivering a soul-stirring exploration of the emotional turbulence that comes with the first major argument in a new relationship. Balancing despair and hope, the track captures the fragility and uncertainty of love during its formative stages.
‘Will You Still’ is an ambitious composition that incorporates a string quintet, clarinet, trumpet, bass, and drums. These elements combine to create a lush, dynamic soundscape reminiscent of David Sylvian’s art-pop, Erik Satie’s minimalist elegance, and Stephen Sondheim’s rich storytelling through music. The arrangement leans heavily into musical theatre territory, amplifying the emotional depth and narrative weight of the song.
Thematically, the track fits within I Panic’s broader exploration of personal and relational growth. Following the February release of the EP, Growing Up in Public, which served as a reflective summation of the artist’s recent journey, and the sparse, introspective single ‘Beautiful Buildings’ in June, ‘Will You Still’ marks a bold step forward. While ‘Beautiful Buildings’ used minimalism – a lone piano and vocal – to express vulnerability, this new track opts for an opulent arrangement to heighten its dramatic impact.
Together, these two tracks exhibit a mind-blowing duality that resembles opposing facets of the same existence. It’s a very special interaction, and they do a fantastic job of giving each other more depth, perspective, and context. I Panic is a remarkable songwriter who weaves whole narratives into his songs, based on common experiences and the complicated, relatable nuances of interpersonal interactions. These two songs demonstrate that I Panic is one of the most intriguing and gifted artists of his generation. He keeps improving and surpassing himself, which is something truly unique.
I Panic continues to defy genre constraints, allowing for expansive and unbridled creativity. ‘Will You Still’ exemplifies this freedom, embracing a multi-layered orchestration that feels both intimate and grandiose. It’s a song that could easily stand as the emotional centrepiece of a musical, its theatricality perfectly suited to the high stakes of its subject matter. For fans of deeply emotive, genre-blurring music, this track is a must-listen – a reminder that even in the face of relational uncertainty, beauty and artistry can emerge.
Find out more about I Panic on his official website, Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram and Spotify.
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