Amidst one of the busiest fourth quarters in music I can remember (quality new music coming from Kylie, Olly Murs, Overtones, Stooshe, Robbie Williams, McFly, Steps, Girls Aloud, et al) there are some emerging artists who are threatened with being overlooked. This is in now way a reflection of their musical abilities, because often you will find that they are accomplished musicians with a unique voice that demands your attention. Vin Goodwin is indeed such an artist. He has recently released a collection of new songs & remixes on his Swim The Wild Water EP and here's why you should part with your hard earned pennies to purchase it...
Vin is not only a man who crafts fine pop songs, but is an expert narrator - breathing life, soul, passion & heart into each tune he delivers. Swim The Wild Water is a brilliant way to evidence how he does this yet never appears too overwrought. The title track of the EP is available in it's original version in addition to some sparkling club remixes. In it's purest form, it's a detailed story with a sumptuous piano riff guiding it forward, complementing the shuffling beat that gives it a propulsive feel - mirroring the lyrical description of the wild waters he is charting. Adding to it's textured feel are some electro additions and electric guitar, plus a swirling middle eight that adds to the atomospheric feel of losing control. Vin's voice is warm, engaging and soulful -adding nuance to the lyrics, making them vivid and real. It's quite the mesmerising musical work of art. (The Bitroka Club Edit adds a more insistent dance beat and shows how the song can work across a number of genres - always the sign of an enduring melody & timeless lyrics). Space In Between is an equally lovely piece of work - reminiscent of some of the down tempo ballads Erasure were producing in the late 80s (You Surround Me, Am I Right). There's a gradually layered instrumental that adds string effects, gentle piano & an always present electro-fuelled beat that never overpowers the plaintive vocal from Mr Goodwin himself. It's a haunting tune that stays with you long after it's musical journey is over. We Call Love continues this vibe & shows Vin as an alchemist of music - conjouring his feelings into being through his expressive delivery & persuasive vocals, all set over elegant and elegaic instrumental creations. All in all, it's a thought provoking EP that works as reflective, pensive stories - or transformed into dance floor classics, something you can shimmy to that has a bit of depth & heart. Amazing.
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