Boy Epic - Filthy (Fifty Shades Darker)

Read my thoughts on Boy Epic's single Fifty Shades here

I must admit that I was quite smitten with Boy Epic's last (and still played regularly) single, Fifty Shades. It was smart, intelligent pop that struck a chord with an insinuating chorus that had me writhing in ecstasy. If his music is going to be this thoughtful and seductive then my safe word is YES PLEASE. So sign me up for another prolonged session in the form of his follow up single, Filthy (Fifty Shades Darker). It's a song about the intensity of passion and love and sex, all rolled into one - that symbiotic moment when you feel at one with the other person, blood pumping through your veins leaving you breathless with anticipation. And when the music and singing absolutely replicate the sentiments of the lyrics you know that the song isn't just sung - it's embodied and performed. That's exactly what Boy Epic does on this sensuous track. It's set to a percussive groove that becomes the filthy beat that he sings of - it's organic and raw, the perfect backdrop for his commanding vocal style. He doesn't need to belt the words out, he gives them the right amount of power with just the way that he sings them - and it's far more effective than belting it to the rafters ever could be. Electric guitar weaves alongside this rhythmic hypnosis and brings a frisson of energy and excitment, much like the exquisite touch of a lover's fingers along the curves of your body. The explosion of ecstasy in the chorus with that genius refrain of "we make love in melodies" is a thrilling moment that teases the satisfaction this song ultimately gives. Boy Epic ably steers the melody with his voice, guiding the song through it's ebbs and flows, thrusts and turns, with an authoritative ease. I love that this all coalesces to give the song a timeless feel - that it could stand as effortlessly alongside a Rolling Stones song as it could next to today's indie rock and pop. Add to this the video that sees Boy Epic all suited and booted, through to loosening his tie and rolling up his sleeves (a look I love on a guy) to a more ruffled yet still refined unbuttoned look - and it's a package that is both mesmerising and alluring. Seriously, one of the most compelling singers around right now. ESSENTIAL.