The creative return of 旋林Rowens this month brings a soulful jazz-pop single of trembling vocal realism, retro keys and bossa nova rhythms. The melodically nostalgic Old Photo presents a catchy yet calming progression, and relays a lyrical poem exploring the impermanence of love.
Aptly loaded with imagery relating to the changing tides of time, from flowers blooming to photos fading and blissful moments all the more powerful in their temporary status, Old Photo evolves from a simple, easy-going performance, through a distinctly impassioned expression of longing and desperation to connect.
As ever, 旋林Rowens permits himself free rein – the opportunity to get vulnerable, complicated and honest, both in lyric and performance. The song rolls along in this way for almost six minutes, sometimes quietly calm and reflective, at other times intensely lost in desire to hold on to a moment.
It’s relatable writing but beautifully captured, and the gentle sway of the music and 旋林Rowens’ own playful yet evocative presentation all shines light on the profoundly human nuances and awareness of inescapable impermanence.
Devoted to the creative process and his own intertwining with the natural world, 旋林Rowens continues to evoke emotions in an unorthodox and intriguing way, and Old Photo reminds listeners of the romanticism and freedom of his approach.
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