poppedmusic

Tom Swan

The Silver Lining EP

Words by Julia Grantham

We are very excited to bring you the very first release from underground artist Tom Swan. Having recorded the tracks in the depths of his solitary studio accommodation during lockdown, the EP is enigmatic and yet the music transparent and peaceful. The air of solidarity during this period in our lives lingers and his scouse background is not necessarily represented in his vocal stylistics. Here is a closer look at each individual track which you might like if you want something calming and reflective to enjoy, today.

Silver Lining is repetitive in the best possible way. Circling continually around the same two chords, or perhaps a variation on just one; an ode to lo-fi and electronic eras make way for a fresh theme of life in our current Covid-19 climate. The metaphor of just one person being the singer’s way out or hope for their future out of lockdown is indicated by the idea of being alone everyday in one room. Take a listen. Hope is the word and yet this is such a positive song.

Apart perhaps alludes to a notion of be trapped and letting go. It could be cross-referenced with the famous work by Elisabeth Kübler-Ross, who pioneered much psychological study and developed the five stages of grief. In fact, the whole EP could be seen as a homage to that, only there are only four tracks here. Apart is a slow-paced thump of a number. It is steady and paced. A sad song with a real passionate energy. Heart-wrenching.

Setting Sun feels like the catharsis to the previous track. When each day is closing the sentiment resonates, perhaps. The use of twinkly keys in the introduction is like water, putting out the sun as it settles for the day. And the rhythm is every so slightly off kilter. It is as if even with the sun setting for the day something more needs to be done, here. 

Memory is very peaceful. It is reflective and the opening is stripped back drawing attention to the meaning. I feel like this song is about letting ago, and the lingering and sustaining instrumentation is used as an echo to embrace the idea that the memory and sentiment of this relationship will never be lost.

Silver Lining is the right title for this EP as it seems to be all about hope. We love hope. Hope for a better tomorrow with the promise of that near.  Already Tom has his next EP, Ghosts, lined up for release in the summer. Liverpool, along with the rest of us, is fortunate to have him. 

Stay in Touch

Find Tom Swan on his website here

Twitter: @tomswansongs

Instagram: @tomswansongs

Bandcamp: Tom Swan 

Listen to The Silver Lining EP here