SYML’s new single ‘The Bird’ begins with a minimal set of strings, electronic flourishes and a rich, airy production which expands Brian Fennell’s mesmerising falsetto. This opening is also misleading, as you’ll discover around the 1:28 mark, when the track takes a darker turn into jittery beats, robotic synths and warped vocals. The track is built around this consistent switch between gliding minimalism and murky bass-induced production, reflecting the dichotomy that lies at the centre of SYML’s message. As the Seattle-based musician shares: “Trying to love or even understand someone with all of their beautiful flaws and intricacies, while we cope with our own, is not easy. It is as delicate and cold as it is proud and belligerent. The Bird represents this surreal dance. If we are too gentle, it might get away. But if we hold on too tight, we might suffocate it.” This purposeful contrast is simple but effective, which is the essence of Fennell’s approach to music. Even his moniker SYML, stands for the Welsh word “simmel” meaning “simple”, and that has a much deeper connection to the artist’s recently discovered Welsh roots. We can certainly expect more of this refined style on the artist’s upcoming twelve-track album to be released May 3rd. - Hannah Thacker

Photo credit: Shervin Lainez