Snows of Yesteryear – Counting Stars (2023)
Described by Janice Forsyth on BBC Radio Scotland as “so gorgeous, really beautiful [and] thought-provoking”, indie-folk band Snows of Yesteryear prove they are not a band to be trifled with. With only two singles under their belt, the Scottish trio are making waves despite their “newbie” status. Blending elements of folk with a slice of pop woven into the melodies, there is a toe-tapping quality to their music while still offering the heart-aching profoundness of folk. The latest addition to their discography is the single ‘Counting Stars’.
Following their debut single ‘Wait By The Shore’, ‘Counting Stars’ is Snows of Yesteryear’s first release in 2023, as well as being their sophomore track. Taken off their upcoming album (set for release in May), ‘Counting Stars’ melds the soothing nature of The Corrs and Fiona Apple with Kate Bush’s ethereal mysticism. Similar to ‘Wait By The Shore’, the single has an innocence draped across the melody; however, a sophistication exists in the arrangement showcasing the band’s raw elegance.
Recorded with producer Mattie Foulds (who happens to play the drums in this single), ‘Counting Stars’ has a beautifully layered effect enhancing the softness of the song. The combination of David Mitchell’s guitars, Kevin McGuire’s bass, Yuuka Yamada-Garner’s violin and Mattie Foulds’ drums toss you into a sonic whirlpool twirling about in hazy bliss. The inclusion of the string section has Snows of Yesteryear finding the balance between classical and contemporary music. Mitchell explains that “we were interested in how we could develop the song, so the tension was always building, gradually layering up each new instrument that is introduced to reinforce the narrative and simplicity of the vocal lines.”
While the lads certainly hold their own in the melody, it is Orr’s remarkable vocals that enhance the ethereal delicacy of ‘Counting Stars’. A slight reminiscence to Kate Bush is heard, but a distinct fragility oozes forth from Orr’s dulcet tones. As Forsyth mentioned, Snows of Yesteryear is “…thought-provoking” and this profoundness is present in the poetic lyricism. Orr explains that ‘Counting Stars’ has a “…sort of smouldering anger and heartache behind the song, the realisation and processing of what has been lost…”
For more from Snows of Yesteryear, check out their Twitter, Instagram and Spotify.
This artist was discovered via Musosoup #sustainablecurator
