Ray Johnson – Winter Night (2024)
With his poetic lyricism and moving melodies, singer-songwriter Ray Johnson weaves his way about your heart in a kaleidoscopic thread of sound. I don’t mean he really weaves his way about your heart singing his songs, it’s metaphorical; yet, the vibrant vivaciousness of his music makes his songs something to be experienced instead of merely heard. Last year, Ray Johnson made our acquaintance with his single ‘Ocean Blue’ and today we take another step along the musical path with his new release, ‘Winter Night’.
Following his well-received single ‘Half A Chance’, Johnson slows the pace from a pop-tinged folk tune to flushes of vintage folk flecked with light acoustic rock in ‘Winter Night’. Joined by musician Dave Bieritz on bass and keys, ‘Winter Night’ may consume you in its serene haziness, but there is a chilly tenderness inserting clarity to the all-consuming melody. Working his production magic on the single, with mastering by Rafael Cuervo Palermo, the acoustic single is soft, gentle and calming within its instrumental arrangement. For me, however, it is Johnson’s dulcet vocals that enhance the warmth, richness, sincerity and tenderness of the track.
Using his natural storytelling skills, Johnson tells a vivid tale in each of his singles. Capturing the joy and tragedy of life through charming lyrics, each word takes us from brilliant romance to desperate vulnerability, resilience, empowerment, loss and pain. Touching on the tale behind ‘Winter Night’, Johnson explains:
“On a serene winter night, a man reflects on love and connection as he stands beneath snow-laden trees warmed by a glowing fire. He contemplates the complexities of romance and his desire to keep things uncomplicated, pondering the possibility of a future encounter that could ignite a deeper relationship. As he envisions the magic of love and dance, he dreams of a place where emotions align perfectly creating a sense of belonging on this enchanting winter night.”
In addition to the single, Ray Johnson released an official music video for ‘Winter Night’. You can view the video below and on his YouTube channel. Please note that this video uses lighting effects that can trigger a migraine or seizure in people with photosensitive epilepsy. Viewer discretion is advised.
Find out more about Ray Johnson on his official website, Facebook, Instagram and Spotify.
This artist was discovered via Musosoup #sustainablecurator
Listen to more folk music on The Other Side Reviews Folk playlist:
