British band 23 Fields return with their sophomore album To Follow This Year’s Fashion, from which “Scars,” released this April 1, particularly caught our eye. Produced by James McMillan, “Scars” is a masterclass in emotional storytelling, a song that explores the complexities of healing after heartbreak.
“Scars” opens with a melancholic soundscape. Relaxed acoustic guitar strums intertwine with slow, mournful notes, while jittery percussion keeps us engaged with some tension sparking up. Step Adam’s vocals enter the fray, deep and husky, carrying the weight of the song’s emotional core. He sings, “The story isn’t about me/It’s on somebody else/Someone you knew too well.” His voice is haunting, filled with a quiet sincerity that draws the listener in. He sings slowly, each word carefully chosen.
The song unfolds like a slow, revealing narrative. The glistening melodies and the ever-present, yet subtle, percussive tapping create a sense of introspection, a space for us to connect with the observations. The interplay between melody and rhythm creates a sense of tension and release, mirroring the woman’s struggle to come to terms with the past. The singer observes the healing process, noting that she’s “getting better every day.”
“Scars” is a testament to the power of empathy. By stepping outside of himself and focusing on the experiences of another, Adam tells us to be grateful that we are not the ones suffering and tells us to lend some of our personal wellness to those who have been deprived of this human right.
With To Follow This Year’s Fashion, 23 Fields builds upon the success of their debut album, The World Is Raining. Listen to “Scars” to find out how well it’s doing.
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Review by Naomi Joan