Labán – Hell Is Not My Nightmare (2020)
Working through a range of different moments and scenarios, Labán takes a look at the multiple states of mind many people go through. ‘Hell Is Not My Nightmare’ focuses on the different stages of mental health and depression. As something that more and more people suffer from, looking at these moments is relatable and handled with a great deal of care.
This progressive indie-pop song combines his power as a singer-songwriter with a delicate melodicism. This single is the last off his studio album and is a hint of the sounds that will make up his next. While this track takes you on a journey through mental health, it is only the start of the greater journey into his music.
There are these fun and poppy synth notes at the start of ‘Hell Is Not My Nightmare’ that set an almost upbeat vibe to the song. This gives way to a deep beat and Labán’s vocals. Using his vocal performance to drive the melody of the single, he draws you into the moment. The tone set by his vocals stays throughout the single even as the lower melody changes up.
The changes in the music below his vocals are very interesting. It helps to drive the idea that you are going through different moments and stages of mental health. The jazzy horns have this wonderful vibe to them, but they are brought down by the synths beneath them. It is a wonderful sonic representation of how depression lingers in the background and affects even lively moments. There is a lot going on in the melody that blends into this wonderful cohesive unit.
Taking you through the different stages of mental health, Labán combines his smooth vocals with a mercurial melody in ‘Hell Is Not My Nightmare’. The single uses various melodic elements and instruments to set the tone and lead you through different moments and scenarios. It is an ambitious take, but one that he has been able to pull off to perfection.
Find out more about Labán on his Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Spotify.
