A lush pop intrigue enthralls throughout “Tunnel of Love,” the new single from Robe, a band based in Athens, Georgia. The track title and thematic aim derives from a classic Hey Arnold! episode, entitled “Operation Ruthless,” that features young love at a carnival and the titular tunnel — where feelings of adoration collide with a uniquely impactful imprint.
“In the Tunnel, you are stuck with one another, with nowhere to go,” says Robe’s Bryan Casey — with the band further emphasizing a juxtaposition between feeling “on a cloud” and “six feet underground.” Contemplative vocals muse alongside haunting acoustics to start: “One way in and one way out / One of those hearts afloat / Will sink and drown.” Clanging piano and erupting guitars add a textured dreaminess at the mid-point, with the track immersing thoroughly in its thematic and atmospheric approach.
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This and other tracks featured this month can be streamed on the updating Obscure Sound’s ‘Emerging Singles’ Spotify playlist.