Track of the Day: Stephen EvEns – A Tree (2023)
Known for his deadpan humour wrapped in post-punk-influenced melodies, singer-songwriter Stephen EvEns captures the obscurity of life in a magical way. Already turning heads with 2017’s album Bonjour Poulet, EvEns only hit our ears in 2020 with his single ‘Dustbin Man’. Alongside our eager interest, the UK-based multi-instrumentalist is piquing the interest of audiences across the globe featured on notable publications, radio stations and playlists. Over the past few years, listeners have not heard much from the talented troubadour; however, he’s back better than ever. Come with us and listen to his new single ‘A Tree’.
Following the 2020 album Employee Of The Month, Stephen EvEns shakes off the dust of Covid lockdowns to entertain us once again. Retaining a heavy, “in your face” pounding in ‘A Tree’, EvEns presents another single oozing eerie darkness. Yet, unlike previous material that tapped into the grittiness of existence, ‘A Tree’ is more optimistic, jovial and upbeat in its rawness. Think Dresden Dolls but with a charismatic flair of psychedelic insanity unique to Stephen EvEns. The first peek into EvEns’s upcoming album Here Come The Lights, listeners can look forward to a more celebratory feast of sound as compared to previous material.
To bring the contained chaos to our ears, EvEns collaborates with various musicians on ‘A Tree’. Featuring Debbie Smith (bass guitar), Jimi Scandal (lead guitar), Josh Perl (piano) and Crompton Wespp (drums) there is a psychedelic haze floating about with a frazzled melody however, just as the instruments have a disconnect from EvEns’ vocals marching about to their own tune, ‘A Tree’ is harmonic in an off-kilter way. It is the perfect theme song for the Mad Hatter at his tea party, but also captures the flowing ease of being lost in a mystical world of natural beauty.
“This track might sound to some like psychedelic misadventure in the park but it’s actually a celebration of the joy that is walking your dog through the trees and leaves and grasses of the countryside. A psychedelic misadventure all of its own.” – Stephen EvEns on ‘A Tree’
In addition to the single, Stephen EvEns released an official music video for ‘A Tree’. You can view the video below or via his YouTube channel. Please note that this video uses lighting effects that can trigger seizures in people with photosensitive epilepsy. Viewer discretion is advised.
VIEWER DISCRETION IS ADVISED
For more from Stephen EvEns, check out his website, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Spotify.
This artist was discovered via Musosoup #sustainablecurator
Listen to more indie-rock tracks on The Other Side Reviews Indie Rock playlist.
