Well gosh darn it and shucks, but those Approval boys (Roland and Simon) know how to make blissfully sweet music that is heartwarming, mellifluous and timeless all at the same time. I've been a fan of their work for some time, and been (im)patiently awaiting some brand new music in 2013. Well, their debut single proper Sparks is finally here and I am not disappointed at all. It's blooming lovely. Lyrically it's a dreamy ode to that special person who just makes your world seem a brighter place no matter how dark and gloomy it can be; the chorus refrain of "You are the spark in my heart" is delivered with such sweet sentiment that it will resonate on a universal scale - whether you single & gazing at Gavin, the hunky new accountant; newly loved up or celebrating 50 years of marriage. There's an innate joy & serenity in the way Roland and Simon's vocals weave so intricately together for the delivery of the chorus, giving it a beautifully harmonised, textured feel that is all too hard to resist. Providing the background for this is the heavenly instrumental - folk inspired pop that is driven by acoustic guitars, sometimes playing solo sometimes together but always giving the song a peppy edge of vibrancy that replicates how you feel inside when you find love (the bounce in your step, the twinkle in your eye, the smile on your face). Music and lyrics so inextricably intertwined, it's a fusion of love & happiness from start to finish that will have you tapping your toes and singing along. Both Simon and Roland have great, expressive voices and they know how to play to their own strengths as well as work well together. There's no grandstanding - it's all about what is best for the song. Note - there's a really effective bit of composition and production at around 2m55s when the music punctuates in and out around the lyrics. It's serves to underline the lyrics and emphasise the optimistic nature of the tune - carrying it to a giddy yet satisfying finish...
(And as always, Silvercut Productions have done an ace job on the video. They are experts at creating striking visuals, choosing lush backdrops to progress the story further - whether it be scenic lakes, picturesque woodlands or the burning lanterns in the night sky - all work incredibly well. Of course the boys are ridiculously goodlooking, have amazing popstar hair and of course choose stunners to play the love interests :) I think my favourite parts of the video are Roland's energetic leap, Simon's lovely scarf, the love-interest bits in that gorgeous little village that looks like it should be the set of The Vicar of Dibley, Simon's smile at the 2m mark and all the bits at the end where the boys friendship seems to just shine through. Brilliant :D)
Pre-order on iTunes here (link coming soon!)...
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