REVIEW: After Reno : Backlight (Single)

After Reno - Backlight

Formed in Scotland, the duo “After Reno” made up of Phil Tobin and Chris Gould. The team have written, recorded and produced this music independently. Backlight was released on July 11th 2024 and is their 3rd song released this year alone. 

"Backlight" fits comfortably within the Americana genre, characterized by its rich blend of country and folk influences. The instrumentation features traditional elements such as acoustic guitars, harmonica and keys creating a soundscape that is both nostalgic and evocative of rural life.

"Backlight" showcases a stunning blend of vocals, harmonica, keys, and guitar throughout the track, creating a rich and immersive auditory experience. The harmonica adds a soulful, rustic touch, while the keys provide a melodic foundation that enhances the emotional depth of the piece. The guitar, with its warm and resonant tones, ties all these elements together, resulting in a sound that is both comforting and soothing to the listener.

The beautifully written lyrics tell a poignant story of pain and emotion, likely stemming from the end of a significant relationship. The narrative is woven with such intricacy and detail that it invites the listener to connect deeply with the underlying themes of heartache and longing.

As the song progresses, the vocals are delivered with an intense and raw emotion that brings the story to life. Each note and phrase is imbued with a sincerity that allows the listener to truly step into the singer's shoes, feeling the weight of their experiences and immersing themselves fully in the world of the song. The combination of these musical elements not only highlights the technical prowess of the performers but also their ability to convey complex emotions through their artistry.

The high-quality mix and production of this track brilliantly showcase the duo's exceptional musical talents and technical expertise. The meticulous attention to detail in balancing the various elements—such as the clarity of the vocals, the crispness of the instruments, and the overall sonic depth—demonstrates a level of craftsmanship that rivals professional label-backed studio sessions. Each layer of the track is thoughtfully arranged and polished, highlighting the duo's ability to create a cohesive and compelling sound that stands out in the music industry. Their proficiency in both performance and production is evident, making this track a testament to their potential and artistry.

Listen to the song on spotify below and keep an eye on After Reno for future songs and works:

https://open.spotify.com/album/4ZLbgawv8iLkaUaSk5dHT6 

Written by Kole Cook

@Kolecookmusic