Daniel Pearson - I Still Believe

Buy I Still Believe here (iTunes)

We live in a pop world where music can sometimes seem like a relentless wall of sound. Trends and fads are added to songs to make them feel contemporary for today's fast paced digital marketplace. On the odd occasion this works it is utterly exhilarating, but then come 100 copy cat songs that sell their very essence just to try to replicate this newly embraced genre twist. There's a lack of craft and melody in much music that now seems to exist solely in songs that embrace the classic songwriting structure that's endured for decades. That's not to say this music is old fashioned, rather that the composers and singers understand the elements that can imbue in the listener a sense of belonging and ownership of their compelling narrative. It's always a delight to discover a singer like this and Daniel Pearson is one such chappie. He's actually quite the established artist with a sizeable online following (which means to any newcomer you get the joy of delving into an existing back catalogue full of hidden treasures). There are many of his songs I could have written about today (and no doubt will do so in the future) but his elegant tune I Still Believe struck me with it's simplistic beauty and relatable message. It starts off with an elegiac yet mesmerisingly mellifluous extended piano introduction that's really allowed to breath and flow, rather than rushing into the song. It's this resonant piano melody that underscores the song, accentuating the emotion and sentiments at play. Daniel has a smooth, engaging vocal style that delivers his message of clinging to hope in the face of adversity with a sincere conviction that brings a soothing majesty to his singing. Within the simplicity of the structure of the track is a grandeur and stirring sense of optimism that only comes from allowing the music and vocal ability to speak for itself. Daniel breathes the nuance into the song like a preacher giving an uplifting invocation to his desolate flock. You may start the song feeling lost and alone yet you feel anything but by the time it concludes. It's not just a song, it's an experience - an aural hug for the masses that need to have faith in their dreams again. Daniel is the most charming of narrators with a song that will sound just as edifying and glorious tomorrow, next year and in ten years time. Don't let this one pass you by...