We Speak Music

Deadset deal with mental health and addiction with raw new single ‘Heavy Eyes’

Published

3 years ago

May 8, 2024

Don Reed

Deadset emerged from the creative synergy between guitarist James Massey and vocalist Sam Mellors. Their collaboration gave way to a sound which evolved into a darker, more intense direction when bassist Adam Arnold and drummer Rio Campbell joined the ranks. These additions formed a fully-fledged band and elevated the indie sensibilities of the original duo into rawer, grittier realms. Striving to avoid monotony and maintain a progressive sound, Deadset focus on fluctuating in genre. But are a post punk outfit at heart. Pulling influences from Joy Division, Fontaines DC and Interpol.

New single ‘Heavy Eyes’ is a raw, vulnerable evaluation of a battle against mental health and addiction and how that bleeds into relationships leaving a devastating and fatal aftermath. The song, which was mastered by Howie Weinberg (Nirvana, Yeah Yeah Yeahs, Daft Punk), fluctuates between a morbid sadness and palpitating anger, a conscious decision made by Deadset to emphasise the unpredictable, unsteady impact birthed by poor mental health. ‘Heavy Eyes’ is a staple for Deadset existing in their set from day one. It’s the song that spawned the sound and feel of the band.

‘Heavy Eyes was the first song I came to Deadset with’, says Adam Arnold. I was listening to Spiderland by Slint on repeat at this point. I wanted to recreate that jarring juxtaposition of tempos and riffs that are synonymous with their sound. Obviously in a more commercial sense. At this point however James and Sam had a completely different direction in mind. Heavy Eyes was my attempt to change that. I’m sure they hated it at first and it took a lot of persuasion. But now it’s a cornerstone of our sound and a constant reference for me’, he further explains.

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We Speak Music

Pauline Frechette Releases “The Wonder of Stars” Featuring Legendary Bassist Stanley Clarke

Published

10 hours ago

November 7, 2026

Olivia Long

Billboard-charting composer, pianist, and vocalist Pauline Frechette releases her new single, “The Wonder of Stars,” featuring legendary bassist Stanley Clarke. Taken from her latest album, At the Edge of Everything, the song is a personal reflection on the beauty of the universe, the search for direction, and the quiet strength that comes from looking beyond everyday worries.

Living in Ojai, California, surrounded by mountains and natural beauty, Pauline finds inspiration in one of her favorite nighttime activities: stargazing with her husband. For her, looking up at the stars is more than simply admiring the night sky. It is a way to find peace, regain perspective, and reconnect with her sense of purpose.

“When I am tired or anxious about something, star gazing relaxes me. I feel strong and sure of the path I must follow,” Pauline explains. Inspired by the explorers who once relied on the stars for courage and direction, she sees the night sky as a reminder that there is always a way forward, even when life presents obstacles.

That feeling became the foundation for “The Wonder of Stars.” Pauline began composing the music while singing, allowing the lyrics to emerge naturally from the emotions and story already expressed through the melody. She considers the song one of her finest compositions.

Featuring the unmistakable musicianship of Stanley Clarke, “The Wonder of Stars” brings together Pauline’s distinctive approach to composition and performance with the artistry of one of music’s most celebrated bassists.

Pauline Frechette has built an impressive career as a composer, pianist, and vocalist. Her compositions have been performed by renowned orchestras, including the Baltimore Symphony, Hollywood Bowl Orchestra, New West Symphony, Cincinnati Symphony, and National Symphony at the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. Her work has also been presented at Walt Disney Concert Hall.

Beyond the concert stage, Pauline has contributed her voice to major film scores and performed alongside some of the biggest names in music, including Paul McCartney, Beck, Cher, Willie Nelson, Neil Diamond, Muse, and Leonard Cohen.

Her current album, At the Edge of Everything, features Stanley Clarke and showcases her ability to move naturally between jazz, neo-classical instrumentals, and expressive vocal compositions. Her music has accumulated more than 30 million streams worldwide.

Through her music and performances, Pauline brings together technical excellence, emotional honesty, and a deep sense of vulnerability. With “The Wonder of Stars,” she offers listeners a reminder to pause, look beyond their immediate surroundings, and find inspiration in the world above them.