Harry Kappen – “The Longing”

“The Longing” is another memorable track from Dutch multi-instrumentalist, composer, and producer Harry Kappen. The single continues a very strong year for Kappen, who has caught our ears in previous months with tracks like “Break These Chains” and “Be Brave If You Can.” With “The Longing” he presents one of his most dynamic productions yet, expanding seamlessly from lusher introspections — with caressing acoustic guitars and heartfelt strings — into harder-rocking entrancement.

Alongside the momentum-filled, melodic instrumentation is Kappen’s consuming vocal presence, here exploring the struggle between listening to one’s heart or head. Striving to find solutions through both emotion and reason, rather than an over-reliance on one, is a relatable element of the human experience — and “The Longing” captures this in artful form. “I wanted to capture that tug-of-war we all feel,” Kappen says. “The quiet reflection, the bursting emotions, and how they collide. In the end, my heart usually leads, but never without listening to my head.”

“Never lost the passion, still longing for your love,” Kappen’s yearning vocals let out amidst steady acoustics, admitting “sometimes my brain is on fire” as passionate strings and guitar distortion intertwine. “Hear my voice of desire,” he continues, capturing the heart’s role in navigating through life. A solemn, psychedelic guitar solo past the two-minute turn represents another standout moment, fully embracing a throwback rock spirit in the rousing guitar work and thumping rhythmic intensity. “The Longing” is another high-quality piece of songwriting from Harry Kappen.

We discovered this release via MusoSoup.

Mike Mineo

I'm the founder/editor of Obscure Sound, which was formed in 2006. Previously, I wrote for PopMatters and Stylus Magazine.

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