Emotive, melodic vocals and alluring piano textures shine on “Graceland,” the new single from South African songwriter/producer William Kalmer and Los Angeles–based singer-songwriter Audrey Karrasch. Produced by South African film composer Edward George King, “Graceland” is memorable in both its gorgeous melodic flow and magnetic vocal performance from Karrasch. Kalmer crafted the track’s initial ideas—specifically its lyrics and original harmonies—and then worked with King to transform the composition into a lovely production featuring felt piano and Karrasch’s riveting vocals.
“Take me to Graceland, whatever that means,” Karrasch begins amidst delicate instrumentation, with a simmering string-laden likeness underneath. The reference thereafter to Graceland as a “place we said hi” frames it as a communal, welcoming destination, conjuring a sense of nostalgia for people and settings that lend a certain sort of comfort and familiarity.
Subtle rhythmic thumps pair with the enchanting piano work at midpoint as Karrasch’s vocals continue in enthralling form, ascending past the three-minute turn: “love was never something bought, just a place your ghost still haunts.” The titular location maintains a somewhat vague quality throughout, enjoyably—like a warming yet quickly fading memory. “Graceland” is a genuinely affecting standout from William Kalmer and Audrey Karrasch.
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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.
