Mari – Rocky Mountain (2022)
The brainchild of UK-based singer-songwriter Ann-Marie Azurunwa, Mari blends elements of chamber music, indie-rock, electropop, and drum and bass. After receiving a guitar for her 13th birthday, Mari discovered her passion for music and embraced it entirely. At the age of 15, Mari took her musical project to the fore when one of her self-produced instrumental tracks were played at school events. Yet, while this was a hint at a public solo career, Mari officially blasted onto the music scene in 2019. The latest addition to her discography is the single ‘Rocky Mountain’.
Described by Dummy Mag as “sparkling indie-pop”, Mari’s sound is unique and inspiring. Following her single ‘Born Blue’, ‘Rocky Mountain’ adopts ethereal vibes within a cinematic soundscape. Opening with a soft, smooth and mellow melody, Mari sets you adrift on a sonic river with sunshine streaming on your shoulders. However, as the song progresses, she moves from chilled-out haziness to hard-hitting drum and bass sounds. The quick interjection of this movement highlights her diversity and shows you the turbulent waters beneath the river’s shiny surface.
Adding to the otherworldly, almost hazy ambience, Mari’s soft vocals flow through the track. It is as if her dulcet tones seep into your soul and send it soaring across the soundscape. Recorded in her bedroom studio, the track is a four-minute whirlpool of synths, guitars and a siren-like voice.
Touching on striving to reach one’s dreams, you would assume the track to be bold, powerful and hard-hitting. Yet, ‘Rocky Mountain’ represents these dynamic themes in a wistful and sublime haziness. Inspired by the motivational quote “Life is a bit like mountaineering, never look down”, the track has an empowering sentimentality. Looking at both the danger and serenity of reaching for goals, ‘Rocky Mountain’ is about trusting your instincts and listening to your inner voice.
For more from Mari check out her official website, Instagram and Spotify.
