From a heavy alternative ambiance to pure instrumental intensity, by way of folk-like imagery and scenes – the fiercely unique creative act Second Choice deliver a cinematic and soulful journey, for By The Blackened Fern.
Featuring raw and impassioned vocals from Dimi De San, there’s a certain conceptual mystique to By The Blackened Fern, which only tightens its grip as the song gathers momentum. We wander through these thorn-wood paths and witness the ravens, the bells, the candles – classic folk and poetic imagery carving out a familiar but ambiguous realm.
All the while, the soundscape evolves from atmospheric and immersive to something like indie-rock expressive during the latter half, the melody following an almost adlib-style progression, and the song never quite adhering to the simple verse-chorus expectations of the mainstream. Instead, it boldly creates its own emotions and weight, as per the changing power of the story. And this continues throughout, slowly but surely guiding us further into the darkness, the grit and uncertainty of our protagonist.
In the end, we wind up amidst this ‘spell’ being cast or spun, and the closing line, ‘morning fears what we’ve become’, leaves a haunting possibility lingering in the air.
Second Choice march to the beat of their own creative drum, and By The Blackened Fern is an enchanting celebration of that truth.
