Weekend Supplement 2: Bright Light Bright Light ~ Moves (EP)

There are two things you can always rely on when it comes to the critically beloved popstar Bright Light Bright Light. Firstly, that with every sparkling single he releases there will be a plethora of equally marvelous remixes and bonus tracks (remember the Vinny Vero mix of Feel It? MAGIC!) Secondly, he almost always has very amazing indeed popstar hair. As you can see and hear, both of these facts are in evidence with the release of his 5th single from one of 2012's very best albums, Make Me Believe In Hope. And rather than just release the song (which stands superbly well as a solo track) in it's own right, he's put together a whole EP for this ever growing fanbase. If you haven't checked out the album, then the EP is a good place to showcase Rod's unashamed love for 90s pop whose influences permeate but never take over the thrust of Moves - and his deeply personal lyrics, insight into relationships and ability to create outstanding music makes this a complex and rewarding piece of work. It's lovingly constructed and impeccably delivered, which demonstrates how much Rod loves the music he creates and also how much he understands what it is like to be a fan. Moves encapsulates the happy music-brutally devastating lyrics combo that Rod is a master of (and is one of the finest songs on the album). "Moving on is the hardest thing to do" opines Rod in the chorus, before a stunning middle 8 washes over you leaving you breathless for more. He wants you to experience these emotions, these trials; indeed learn from these lessons but he doesn't want to bring you down too much in the process. Amidst the stark synths, dreamy chimes & percussive beats is a wistful & instrospective narrative that allows Rod beautifully nuanced vocals to accentuate every aching emotion that the lyrics provide. Just beautiful... and if that wasn't enough, there are some extra tracks for you to consume to your heart's content:

• Blueprint ~ a song that builds layer upon exquisite layer of music until the entire tune erupts in a glittering cavalcade of emotion. Richly textured lyrics perfectly match the quickening pulse & growing crescendo of the music until the listener is right there in the moment, becoming intricately entwined with the song.
• This Is Me Without You ~ this song begins with some of the most elegiac, vulnerable piano you will hear all year. A gentle, shimmering beat fades in and out to echo the fragility of the lyrics that recall a fractured relationship & the healing that must occur to move on. Poetic & openly honest, this transcends genres & trends to become a timeless piece of art that will last through the ages. Heavenly...

(Listen to all songs here on Rod's soundcloud page)