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The indie scene has been celebrating the phenomenal Yatesy and the exceptional blend of styles which is reminiscent of the best of 80s and 90s music which has culminated in this latest release “A New Life On A New Planet” over the last day and a bit and I couldn’t think of a more apt choice for the featured song of the day than this. This song is an outstanding example of all the elements which makes Yatesy the much admired artist he is. That stunning swirl of multiple guitar and synth layers that seem to whirl around the vocals in this track definitely gives an otherworldly “new life on a new planet” effect-something which is the mark of a songwriter who is exceptional at his craft is the sound design (which yes is a lot to do with the production)- here, though it seems the instrumental backdrop written here by Yatesy is intentional as that sonic whirlpool of guitars and synths are certainly a huge part in conveying the theme of the title. All within just under 3 minutes we have here a song which leaves you wishing that you could remain in this new soundscape for a while longer. The vocal shape and melody along with the lyrics are uniquely Yatesy…as he’s “singing a sad song” the music sounds soothing and beautiful…this sonic world is a place where you can “forget what’s going on in your head” as the protagonist keeps “singing a sad song” but also reassuring the listener that this place is a place to go whether feeling low or whatever real world emotion you’re experiencing to step back take a breath and enjoy a patch of sunshine. This is essentially the feeling that music has given myself over a lifetime, and I’m certain that the exact same feeling that music is a place to go to runs through the minds of musicians, music lovers and artists all around the world. This is a sterling piece of songwriting by Yatesy which will resonate with a lot of us. Even if the lyrics might convey a wistful sadness-the music is a brilliant healer and a great “other” world which give us all freedom to be-to allow ourselves to stand in a patch of sunshine for a moment. So yes, I am late to the party here- but definitely had to thank Yatesy here and show him that indeed-his music and being here is utterly appreciated and is to be celebrated. Thank you for this brilliant reminder of why music matters so much.
