"Float" - A Diverse and Emotional Debut Album
"Float" is the splendid debut album of Solitude Sometimes Is, a South London musician who merges New Wave and Britpop influences with wistful lyrics and soaring choruses. The album contains eight tracks that examine themes of love, loss, and longing, with a touch of nostalgia and melancholy. The album also displays the talents of some remarkable musicians, such as Elbow drummer Alex Reeves and award-winning trumpet player Nigel Bennett.
The album begins with "Pale Fire", a lively and catchy song that establishes the mood for the rest of the album. The song draws inspiration from the novel of the same name by Vladimir Nabokov, and references some of its themes and characters. It has a memorable chorus that repeats the line “I’m not afraid of you”, which could be a defiant statement against whoever.
The following track is "You Left Early", a heartbreaking ballad that tells the story of a lover who left without saying goodbye. The song features a splendid trumpet solo by Nigel Bennett, who adds an emotional touch to the song. The song articulates the pain and confusion of being forsaken, and the hope of seeing the lover again someday.
"We’ll Speak Soon" deals with the difficulty of sustaining a long-distance relationship. The song has a hopeful tone, as the narrator pledges to keep in contact with their partner, despite the challenges and uncertainties.
"A Farewell To Arms" borrows its title from the novel by Ernest Hemingway. It is about a couple who fall in love during a war, and face the repercussions of their choices. The song has a powerful guitar riff and drum beat, and features some ingenious wordplay and references to the novel. The chorus repeats the line “And we all fall down”, which could be perceived as a metaphor for the futility of war or the fragility of love.
The title track "Float" is an atmospheric piece that evokes floating in space or water. The song has poetic and abstract lyrics that imply detachment and transcendence.
“November” is a nostalgic song that reflects on a past relationship that came to an end in November with a splendid acoustic sound.
“Leave Him Now” is a dynamic and energetic song that encourages a friend to break free from an abusive partner. The song has a pop-rock sound, with some synth and guitar. The song conveys an empowering message, as the narrator offers support and advice to their friend.
The album ends with "Come Back And Play The Piano For Me", a romantic song that expresses the longing for a former lover who played the piano for them. The song has simple but heartfelt lyrics that convey the love and admiration for the pianist.
"Float" is an impressive debut album that showcases Solitude Sometimes Is talent and creativity. The album has a diverse sound that blends genres and influences. It has an emotional depth that explores various aspects of love and life. "Float" is an album that will make you feel, think, and float along with its music.
