Neo & Neo – Stone In My Heart (2023)
A natural storyteller, singer-songwriter Dominik Robin weaves the intricacies of life through intimate, kaleidoscopic melodies. Performing under the moniker Neo & Neo, his sonic tales shine bright like neon lights in dark places warming you, comforting you, discarding you, and wrapping you in the blanket that is life. This is my introduction to Robin, but he is already a well-known name with extensive tours across Switzerland, Germany, and Lebanon (to name but a few countries). Along with the bold stage presence, his music is powerful garnering attention across the globe from Asia to Europe and South America. Joined by fellow musicians Raphael Schneider (guitar), Georg Dillier (bass), Martin Fischer (drums), and Philipp Bäni (vocals), Robin (grand piano and vocals) rounds up the Swiss quintet Neo & Neo.
The third release in 2023, ‘Stone In My Heart’ finds the line between smooth, soft ‘Behind The Walls’ and upbeat, roots-focused ‘Labuan Bajo’. One might consider the ballad minimalist and simplistic; however, while there is a simplistic sensibility, a kaleidoscopic swirl of instruments makes the sonic tapestry much brighter. Produced by Stefan Huber and Phillipp Bäny with mastering by Dan Suter, the arrangement is harmonic with rhythmic whimsy but simultaneously retains a sombre clarity in its definition. A sense of order in a heady veil of mist. Lost in a cacophony of sound, one dips from the hushed drums to the moving guitars; however, it is the piano that drives the track.
This melody can capture your senses on its own; then again, you wouldn’t be wrapped in the blanket of life if there was no story to tell. With husky vocals, ‘Stone In My Heart’ follows the tale of Adrian, an artist torn between two loves. One was a mysterious siren, the other a familiar long-time love. In the end, when Adrian must make his choice, he realises that love is not a single choice but a journey. It is a masterpiece that emerges from “the flawed beauty of a heart between two worlds”. ‘Stone In My Heart’ finds this masterpiece with a contemporary indie-folk intimacy and an orchestral symphony.
In addition to the single, Neo & Neo released a music video for ‘Stone In My Heart’. You can view the video below or via their YouTube channel.
For more from Neo & Neo, check out their official website, Facebook, Instagram and Spotify.
This artist was discovered via Musosoup #sustainablecurator
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