An ode to the loss of his first family dog, “Jacquelyn” is a touching track from Sam Hoffman. The expressive, layered string arrangements combine with soaring vocals and melodic guitars for a hook-filled sound, fondly reminiscent of Electric Light Orchestra.
The Nashville-based artist enamors throughout, handling a sensitive issue with tact in highlighting the friendship and carefree spirit of Jacquelyn. The opening lyrics — “I’ll let you in,” — are aptly inviting, with escalating strings complementing lyrics highlighting the beauty (and heartbreak) of having a tail-wagging pal. “How could you go?” the vocals cry out, sending chills as a passionate assortment fo guitars and strings converge. “Jacquelyn” is a lovely ode to a dog that lives on in song.
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This and other tracks featured this month can be streamed on the updating Obscure Sound’s ‘Best of April 2023’ Spotify playlist.
