Single Selection: Thomas Fiss ~ Let Go (Studio & Acoustic versions)

Thomas Fiss ~ Let Go (Single Version):

I am chagrinned (good word) that I have not written about bona fide pop proposition, Thomas Fiss, prior to now. That is not to say, however, that I haven't been enjoying his mightily fine single "Let Go" for a while now - indeed, he released the video onto youtube on the fortuitous day of my birth (May 3rd, just in case you want to pop it in your diary). The song demonstrates that young Thomas clearly has an exacting understanding of what makes a vibrant, fun, catchy pop-dance record these days. Each element of the tune is carefully crafted, yet comes across as a carefree, easy flowing delight. It starts with a slow build, the focus being on Thomas' engaging vocal style which shines forth over the percolating, gently crescendoing backing instrumental. When (at 45s) this collides with a joyous explosion of guitar riffs, scintillating synths and an energetic, percussive beat, it's a genuine celebration of love, life and music. Thomas gives the song a genuine passion as he brings the lyrics to life by adjusting the intonation and power of his singing to match the needs & emotions of the song. It's this symbiosis of performance that makes the song stand out - take the hushed middle 8 for example: like a heartbeat waiting for adrenaline, it takes a reflective pause before unleashing that compulsive, addictive chorus for one more triumphant victory lap. Amazingly enjoyable stuff :)

Acoustic version:

Thanks to those fine folks at Clevver Music, Thomas has also performed a rather lovely acoustic version of his sparkling pop smash, Let Go. Dressed in his best Guns 'n' Roses t-shirt (well, Paradise City IS a classic, isn't it?), he donned a guitar to give a stripped back version of his song that not only emphasised how his voice carries the melody, but also highlighted the romantic nature of the lyrics. The duelling guitars play well with each other, giving the song a genre-hopping vibe that reminds me a little of my beloved Dashboard Confessional. Also, the other chap adds a lovely resonant harmony to the proceedings that is subtle but effective in giving the song some depth and texture. I really like how Thomas has taken the fully produced version, deconstructed it and then rebuilt it in a way that is easily recognisable but opens up new elements of the tune. It's musical alchemy at it's finest and I can't wait to hear more from this talented chappy :)