LONGLIGHT – Choppy Water (2021)
Known for their euphoric sound with cinematic soundscapes, LONGLIGHT is a duo set to take you on a fantastical journey through music. Technically forming in 2016 when Jo Williams and Lucas Polo performed at a castle on the Tuscan hills in Italy, LONGLIGHT has graced the world with their endearing, soulful sounds. During their international tours, taking them to France, the USA and the UK, the duo gathered a loyal following alongside critical acclaim. Yet, while LONGLIGHT has a reputation for engaging shows, it is only now they are releasing music via Spotify. Today we bring you their debut single ‘Choppy Water’.
Plunging you immediately into a comfortable blanket of perfumed sound, ‘Choppy Water’ has a jovial and happy-go-lucky languidness about it; however, much more lies ahead in the single. Definitely an upbeat melody with charming instrumentation and lyricism, there is a smoothness in the flowing harmonies but something deeper underlies the cheerful sound. It is this juxtaposition of reflective lyricism and buoyant melodies that showcase depth in content.
Described by vocalist Williams as being “about a former love of mine…trying to distract ourselves with video games and plans for the future to escape the fact we were growing apart”, ‘Choppy Waters’ touches on failing relationships, frustration and desolation. Using a personal narrative, Williams’ bold vocals engage with the audience on a more introspective level. The warmth and richness hide feelings of desperation and sadness in melancholic lyricism but there is a melodic twist to the tale.
While the context can be quite disarming, there is an underlying optimism as “the song clings to the hope of seeing that person again”. A suitable song for today’s climate, ‘Choppy Water’ cradles you with the hope of making you feel more secure and loved during this pandemic. Yet, it is not only Williams’ dulcet tones that add the blanket of comfort, it is Polo’s guitar orchestra that “rise together in an emotional climax”.
Acoustic-inspired and evocative, LONGLIGHT traverse folk, pop and soul in this spine-chilling single. If ‘Choppy Water’ is anything to go by, I cannot wait for more of this provocative music.
For more from Longlight check out their official website, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Spotify.
