“How I Caught the Moon” is a sweeping epic of a track from Jamie Parker, moving seamlessly from orchestral lushness into invigorating prog-rock grandiosity. The Dorset, UK-based artist excels in his invigorating vocal work and knack for structural climaxes. A variety of talented collaborators add wonderfully to the mix — notably in the introspective lyrics, written by James Ousley, and stirring string arrangements from Lucy Hackett. Molly Waters’ ghostly, melodic backing vocals are also a force throughout. Jack Ansell, Rick Veall, Will Sear, and Tim Bascombe also add their talents within.
The track proves gripping from the get-go. “The moon rises…” opening sequence is commanding, intertwining soaring vocals, heart-tugging strings, and twinkling pianos for a masterfully orchestrated production. The ascent into the four-minute turn is also dynamic, moving from forlorn string-laden hypnotics into a bursting rock-forward charisma. Jangly guitars and organs a minute thereafter invoke a similarly lush charm, before an expressive array of psych-friendly prog-rock bursts in the final minutes. “How I Caught the Moon” is a resonating showcase in quality songwriting and production.
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This and other tracks featured this month can be streamed on the updating Obscure Sound’s ‘Emerging Singles’ Spotify playlist.
