photo courtesy of Simon Scardanelli

Single Reviews of Simon Scardanelli – “Young & Curious” and “Here We Go Again”

Simon Scardanelli released these two singles recently, not too far apart chronologically, but a bit moreso stylistically. They’re the fourth and fifth singles released so far, if I’ve counted correctly, from the upcoming album Underneath the Singing Tree. Given the diversity before just these two songs, I suspect we can look forward to a very varied collection.

image courtesy of Simon Scardanelli

“Young & Curious” is actually an exceptionally stereotypical Simon Scardanelli tune, its lead-in, tempo, and mood very much in line with many of Simon’s other best songs, so it’s sure to become a favorite among fans (like me). It treads along smoothly; Simon’s vocals are deep and serious, though not too heavy, occasionally hitting a well-placed high note. It’s a song about past connections, gone but not necessarily lost, at least not when viewed through the lens of memories. Also, a nifty horn part kicks things off at the very beginning and wafts in and out throughout, more reminiscent than haunting. I’m never certain enough to name a specific horn when I hear it, except this time. In the song notes, Simon says the song begins with “a trumpet lost in the ’70s.” So (I say confidently), it’s a trumpet; much like the emotions explored in the song, lost but not forgotten.

image courtesy of Simon Scardanelli

“Here We Go Again” opens quite differently, with a very light strum. The song is a richly (though sparsely) instrumented musing about poor decisions made (repeatedly) when the lights are low. Presumably late at night, but I suppose not necessarily. The song clearly isn’t a complaint. More, rather, a bemused acceptance – “here we go again.”

So, I can guarantee there’ll be two new favorite songs on the upcoming album – these two – for those who dig Simon’s vibe. And that’s not a negative statement against the first three singles. I specifically only listened to these most recent two singles to be able to churn out my review more quickly… and to leave more “new discoveries” for myself when the whole album lands in my playlist. You, of course, don’t have to wait. You can find all of Simon’s releases on his bandcamp page. There’s even a YouTube video for the title track of the upcoming album. But aside from the little snippet I heard while grabbing that link for you, I’m gonna wait and be surprised when the full album hits my inbox.

Last-Minute, April 6th Addendum

A little new news just as I’m about to post this review. Per this Facebook video released just a few hours ago, the full-length album has an official release date of June 9th, but it is available starting today exclusively at Simon’s website or when attending one of his concerts. I look forward to hearing and reviewing the full-length disc.