Track of the Day: One Cure For Man – Everything (Promise Me)
The lovechild of Van Halen and Aerosmith, James Parkinson merges old-school rock with contemporary indie-rock in his solo project One Cure For Man (OCFM). With warmth, richness and smooth robustness, OCFM easily ensnares your senses with his unique sound. Already a well-known name at The Other Side Reviews, we are honoured to work with this talented singer-songwriter. However, we are not the only ones taking note of OCFM. Parkinson is reaching an international audience with features in When The Horn Blows, RGM, Louder Than War (to name but a few). The latest addition to his well-received repertoire is the single ‘Everything (Promise Me)’.
Following his critically acclaimed single ‘Humble’ (read our review here), ‘Everything (Promise Me)’ is a heavier, more hard-hitting alternative rock single. Reminiscent of Van Halen, Parkinson showcases his multi-instrumental skills with powerful guitars, underlying synths and pounding drums courtesy of his brother Ben Parkinson. The melody does have a smoothness to the rugged rock-ness, but the crescendos into screeching guitar solos are what makes the song soul-stirring.
Touching on issues of self-reflection, personal perceptions of life, creativity, frustration and inner turmoil, ‘Everything (Promise Me)’ explores the fragility of the human spirit in a difficult time. Laying his warm vocals atop the moving melody, Parkinson enhances the poignancy of the insightful lyricism. He states that “the song was written before the lockdown but it has taken on a real sense of frustration that so many creative people have endured” making it a sonic representation of chaotic emotions. This personal narrative adds a reflective element to ‘Everything (Promise Me)’ increasing its provocativeness, relatable and tenderness.
Filled to the brim with raw honesty, ‘Everything (Promise Me)’ is sincere, genuine and sentimental. Yet, while the lyricism and melody lean toward a chaotic ambience, the kaleidoscopic soundscape has a lingering sense of optimism and humility. As Parkinson puts it, “everything is not as it seems”. Another triumph from the UK-based singer-songwriter!
In addition to the single, One Cure For Man has released an official music video for ‘Everything (Promise Me)’. It can be viewed HERE.
For more from One Cure For Man, check out his Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Spotify.
