Josh Tepper – Guide Me Meron (2023)
If you aren’t sure who Josh Tepper is, then let me introduce you. A US native, Tepper attended the prestigious Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School achieving a vocal major in music. He is currently continuing his studies at the Tisch School of Arts with a major in cinema studies. I’m not here to speak about his educational achievements or the fact that he is a twin (fun little fact there), I’m taking you on a journey through his musical career.
A seemingly new musician in the US pop scene, Josh Tepper is an emerging artist turning heads on a global scale. From The Other Side Reviews (that’s us) to BBC Radio, various independent blogs and playlists, Tepper is quickly garnering much attention on an international level. His music has been described as dreamy, emotionally charged, and inspirational. We take a gander at his anthemic nature with his latest single ‘Guide Me Meron’.
When we left Josh Tepper, he was sharing his experiences in toxic environments in the synth-pop single ‘Poison Apple’. Now, toxic environments and experiences can manifest in many ways, but the outcome is generally the same – inner conflict, self-doubt, fear, and anxiety. In ‘Guide Me Meron’, Tepper explores difficulties in life once again but with a far more optimistic slant. Known for intimate melodies focusing on real-life experiences, ‘Guide Me Meron’ is a spiritual anthem helping Tepper cope with a personal crisis. He explains:
“During difficult times we all benefit from spiritual guidance. I was going through a personal crisis which was worsened by the recent death of my grandparents who were deeply spiritual people and often told me stories about Mount Meron, the centre of Kabbalah in Israel. Thousands of people gather there every year on Lag Baomer to connect with the ancient Kabbalists. Sometimes if you close your eyes and open your mind, the wisdom and energy of Meron will fill your soul and guide your way.
Moving from synth-pop ‘Poison Apple’, ‘Guide Me Meron’ leans further toward commercial pop sounds. Sincere, soothing and soft from the first chord, the single empowers people through an encouraging melody. While the bold pop sounds carry listeners on a journey of enlightenment, it is Tepper’s bold vocals that help us navigate this soul-stirring road of hope. One aspect I enjoy is how the pace differs between a mellifluous smoothness to high-paced enthusiasm during the choruses. It oozes passion, power and an optimistic perspective to any crisis.
For more from Josh Tepper, check out his Twitter, Instagram and Spotify.
This artist was discovered via Musosoup #sustainablecurator
