Paul Ariss – The People That We Were (2024)
Known primarily for his astounding songwriting skills, Paul Ariss is a musician who can ensnare your senses with a few words. His first solo single, ‘Blinded’, was chosen as Radio Airplay’s ‘Song of the Week’, and his second, ‘Your Truest Faith’ reached the semi-final of the UK Songwriting Contest. Quickly earning a reputation for songwriting prowess, he is reaching far beyond his UK borders with critically acclaimed tracks. An awfully good singer as well, he explores profound topics in his lyricism while his rich vocals send the song wriggling into our heads and hearts. The latest addition to his discography is the single ‘The People That We Were’.
Following his well-received single ‘How Can Anybody Take The Place Of You?’, Ariss dips further into country music with ‘The People That We Were’. Recorded and produced by John Kettle, ‘The People That We Were’ is a concoction of pounding drums, bold bass and searing guitars all contained in a harmonic symphony. While the track leans strongly toward country, hints of classic rock peek in giving it a heavier, hard-hitting brashness.
One aspect I love about ‘The People That We Were’ is the juxtaposition between laidback, toe-tapping, heart-warming sound and poignant lyricism. Intricately weaving profound themes through a chilled-out melody, Ariss showcases his strong understanding of the interplay between words and music.
“The song is primarily about that awful moment when a relationship breaks up and two people who have been so incredibly close look at each other as strangers… it’s about the betrayal and deceit that has led them there, the lies, half-truths and self-doubt.” – Paul Ariss on ‘The People That We Were’
Performed by Chloe Pownall, rich vocals exude the vulnerable fragility of broken relationships; however, and rather intriguingly, her voice embraces you like an old friend offering security, acceptance and solace.
In addition to the single, Paul Ariss released an official music video for ‘The People That We Were’. You can view the video below or via his YouTube channel. Please note that this video uses effects that can trigger migraines and/or seizures in people with photosensitive epilepsy. Viewer discretion is advised.
Find out more about Paul Ariss on his Facebook, Instagram and Spotify.
This artist was discovered via Musosoup #sustainablecurator
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