Songwriter and artist Philip Nance quite creatively overlays a classic style of country songwriting with a notably ethereal, dreamy arena-pop production, for the poetic and uplifting single Kansas.
Building up slowly by way of a colourful soundscape and a mellow but increasingly passionate vocal, Kansas soon finds its feet as a pop-rock anthem of warmth and energy; not hugely dissimilar to the likes of Bruce Springsteen or, more recently, Sam Fender.
It’s a bold arrangement, which naturally raises the mood, and the softness but clear emotion of Philip’s voice works beautifully within the supporting embrace of that.
Melodically familiar for its mainstream appeal, Kansas feels like both a country and soft rock hit in the making – an easy contender for the right kind of audience, complete with a humble guitar solo and fiercely awakening drums.
It’s an unexpected twist of character for a genre already noting mass interest of late, and Nance writes from the heart but with a clear awareness of what listeners will connect with and remember. As such, Kansas is a subtle yet effective earworm, and the musicianship is sensational. I look forward to hearing more.
Download or stream Kansas. Find Phillip Nance on Facebook & Instagram.
