Brilliant songwriting captures a moment and style that’s perfectly unique yet fitting in terms of the current music scene. drew. and Manzo collaborate to sublime results, for the evocative and heartfelt single HighLife.
Initially impressive for its lyrical simplicity and the clear vulnerability driving that, we begin with an acoustic guitar and an intimate vocal somewhat inspired by the recent rise of emo rock and rap melodies. It’s a unique take, the lyrics really reaching out with honesty and longing that feels authentic.
Soon enough we get to the hook, and the likability of the track is elevated all the more so. A superb chorus, the songwriting reaching a peak that naturally satisfies – “Trying to catch a high at an all time low” resounding in a fresh but totally accessible and memorable way.
As if all of this wasn’t enough to impress and get you replaying the track, the collaboration brings about a complete change in pace and tone as the second vocal chimes in. Here the production evolves into a more nostalgic pop-punk emo arrangement of bass, guitars, synths and drums, as well as a higher toned lead that again resembles the sound of that genre and the nostalgia of the style.
Even with this new direction though, the melody and emotional sincerity remain, the song still pours through with fluidity and purpose, and later reinjects that hook amidst a much fuller soundscape – at which point it hits with a notably more anthemic energy and piercing realism.
Fantastic modern songwriting, as stated, and great production and creative dynamic to hold attention. The music has a joyful kind of synth-led melodic bounce to it, but the lyrics deal with absolute isolation and lostness, and that juxtaposition is mighty.
Download or stream HighLife. Find Andrew Markos / drew. on Instagram.
