A twangy, dreamy hookiness takes hold “Love Lies,” a single out today from Caleb Nichols. An affecting vocal presence, reminding at points of Elliott Smith, moves with deep entrancement alongside the atmospheric rock and psych-pop swirling. “I’ve been dreaming of a love that’s not a lie,” Nichols sings, as the sturdy strums and sporadic twangs meld gorgeously. Nichols notes taking inspiration from two mid-’90s radio hits — Duncan Sheik’s “Barely Breathing” and Natalie Imbruglia’s “Torn” — for the track, and the production here struts a stylish immediacy that’s comparably nostalgic.
“Love Lies” captivates in its balance of moodiness and replay-inducing hooks, with the “unconditional,” refrain being especially impactful. Its themes of finding true love, and exploring heteronormative love lives, pairs with a thoroughly memorable production. “Love Lies” is a consummate success from Nichols, who has played in the past with acts like Port O’Brien, Release the Sunbird, Grand Lake, Soft People, and more.
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This and other tracks featured this month can be streamed on the updating Obscure Sound’s ‘Emerging Singles’ Spotify playlist.
