It’s always the songwriting that separates the lasting artists from the crowd. Great voices can entertain, but a great song can stand the test of time, and that seems to be what lets the single Burn rise above many folk-pop and indie releases.
Simon Tselios is the songwriter, presenting a familiar but impressive acoustic guitar line, accessible but impassioned vocals, and a snappy, catchy melodic progression.
The single Burn builds from the acoustic intimacy of an apparent stomp box and chord-riff, to a fuller band-style arrangement, with a great use of additional layers from piano and rhythm, which prove equally distinct but still essentially humble within the mix.
Then there’s the lyrics, and the structure of the song – a brief four-note verse leading quickly into a likable pre-chorus, then a whole new brightness for the uplift and resolve of that moment. It’s poetic and personal, relatable and emotive, balancing anecdotal with engaging, and that makes all the difference. So too do these snappy lyrics – pairs of lines that each resound with their own poignancy and weight.
Meanwhile the groove rolls on, gathering energising momentum, and satisfying as we drop into the catchy finish that is the looping hook line.
Simon Tselios brings humility and heart to modern indie pop, and Burn is a great song, simply put – an enjoyable one to let play this season, with a thoughtful under tone and a professional mix and master allowing for easy playlist inclusion.
“We set fire to the things that we love.”
Find Simon Tselios on Instagram.
