Taking inspiration from Stevie Wonder’s classic ’70s era, “It Is What It Is” is a versatile pop success from Nick Witzeman, fusing funk elements within a throwback appeal, also reminiscent of Todd Rundgren. The Bloomington, IN-based artist impresses throughout his newly released full-length album Rising, Falling, with “It Is What It Is” being amongst its numerous highlights.
Melodic clavichord and elegant piano meld seamlessly as the track gets underway, then driving into Witzeman’s smooth lead introspection. “Always something different / Craving, craving, craving,” he intones, quickly establishing themes of desire. Witzeman notes specifically that the track infuses “moderately Buddhist themes about the inevitability of craving and suffering.”
A steady rhythm section, with caressing bass and head-nodding drums, complements the stately piano and clavichord movements, expanding especially during the title-touting sequence, bringing forth a twangy guitar element amidst backing choral harmonies. “It Is What It Is” is a stirring success from Nick Witzeman, whose full-length is also streaming below:
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This and other tracks featured this month can be streamed on the updating Obscure Sound’s ‘Emerging Singles’ Spotify playlist.
