Bridging soul, jazz, and pop with cohesive appeal “Why should I?” is a memorable track from Glasgow-based collective Backroom Gossip, led by pianist Geoff Angus and producer/multi-instrumentalist Stefan Celosia, who is a seasoned bass player, guitarist, drummer, and music producer. Driven by the belief that every note must contribute to a narrative, the duo balances technical virtuosity with a stress-free, natural energy.
A heartfelt, descriptive vocal presence casts a soulful spell right away. “Empty room, empty bed, broken bottle I can’t mend.” Chilly keys and slight rhythms bolster the enveloping vocal presence, admitting to always “living in my own head.” A bright flash of organs signals funky guitar licks and a more charismatic rhythm section, while backing vocal harmonies bolster the intoxicating mix even further. The one-minute turn is especially magnetic in its “why should I?” vocal questioning, while tender guitar twangs and expressive piano build into a dynamic “gone away” ascent — initially melancholic, and then emotively soaring.
Another title-bearing segment delights at the track’s two-minute turn, now prominently featuring shimmering strings and a catchy “should I care?” vocal repetition, which melds seamlessly with the suave guitar tones and thumping rhythmic momentum. Impressing with its continuously climactic vigor and soulful stylishness, “Why should I?” is a dazzling standout single from Backroom Gossip.
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This and other tracks featured this month can be streamed on the updating Obscure Sound’s ‘Emerging Singles’ Spotify playlist.
We discovered this release via MusoSoup.
