SG Lewis ft Gallant - Holding Back

Download Holding Back here (iTunes UK)

More often of late, collaborations between music acts seem to occur to maximise the marketing potential for a new single or album. It's a savvy move that allows artists to tap into the social media followings of two acts, potentially bringing new fans to both. I have no problem with this being the marketing approach - but it sometimes seems that the creative reasons for such pairings are lost in the excitement of the possibilities. Not so with the latest single from SG Lewis who pairs with Gallant on the rather excellent Holding Back. Both artists know a thing or two about crafting lush, resonant pop music that is influenced by an eclectic range of genres and built around memorable lyrics and indelible hooks. Together, with co-writer Ed Drewett (who himself knows plenty about creating pop classics), they've pooled their experience to give the world the shimmering melodic beauty that is Holding Back. It's as deliciously cool as diving into an icy pool on a hot summer day; yet as instantly scorching with simmering sex and vivid longing. Set to languorous beats, chiming synths and textured horn-style effects, it pulses along like the quickened heartbeat of a person in the throes of passion. The lyrical flow of the story is just as mesmerising as the music as Gallant sings with exquisite falsetto of the trepidation of opening yourself up to love - immersed in the gorgeous orchestration that surrounds his vocal, the hesitance in the narrative is in glorious juxtaposition with music that makes you want to take all your clothes off and love the one you're with (safely, of course). Utterly satisfying from start to finish - it is, perhaps, the finest and achingly amazing song of the summer since Janet Jackson's That's The Way Love Goes (and, I suspect, will endure with repeated listens year after year for just as long). I thought they didn't make magic like this anymore, but these gifted musical alchemists have proved me wrong - conjuring up this gem of a pop song. Long may they reign.