Track of the Day: Copeland James – Best Friend
Using their classical music training tinged with elements of folk and pop, singer-songwriter Copeland James offers listeners a unique, intoxicating sound. Looking to bridge the gap between people, James uses melodies as a form of sonic communication. They share that “songwriting is a way for me to sit with a thought long enough that I can express it just the way it felt…” The latest addition to their discography is the single ‘Best Friend’.
Following their debut track ‘Restless In Rome’, Copeland James embraces their inner Sara Bareilles with an underlying Alanis Morrissette obscurity. Mellifluous and charming, ‘Best Friend’ is the perfect combination of contemporary folk-pop and classical piano. A piano-driven track, there is a soothing to the single; however, just as the piano offers a soothing tone, it also brings a melodic vulnerability. Interestingly enough, while there is a vulnerability in the arrangement, there is a sting of empowerment and optimism within the tune. Add James’ obscure vocals and you have an eclectic, stand-out, intriguing sonic gem in a pool of pebbles.
The melody can hold its own as something unique, but it is James’ lyricism that enhances the depth of ‘Best Friend’. Touching on connections, relationships and the fragility of communicating with others, ‘Best Friend’ is an “experience of finding new connection after knowing loneliness”. James explains that “when I’m getting to know someone, I want them to feel comfortable and safe sharing all sides of themselves. Throughout the song, I’m asking someone if they want to be friends, if they want to let me in on their secrets. It all builds up to me asking ‘do you want me to let you in’ because that’s the hard part. It’s easy to ask someone else to open up, but the real payoff comes when you do it yourself.”
Sensitive, sentimental, insightful and reflective, Copeland James explores human fragility with their delicate new track ‘Best Friend’.
For more from Copeland James, check out their Twitter, Instagram and Spotify.
This artist was discovered via Musosoup #sustainablecurator
