We Speak Music
“I Saw You Turning Around”: Longplayer’s Nostalgic Dive into Reflection and Release
Mikey Long’s latest single, “I Saw You Turning Around,” encapsulates the introspective, genre-blending style that Longplayer is quickly becoming known for. Known for his contributions to bands like Drugdealer, Long steps forward with a distinct voice, using his solo project as a vehicle for personal expression and creative exploration. The song channels deeply reflective themes, from the bittersweet encounter with an ex-lover to the complex feelings of letting go. Long’s ability to fuse genres with a classic songwriting touch makes this single an emotionally rich and sonically captivating listen.
With lush instrumentation, “I Saw You Turning Around” feels both familiar and innovative. Long draws inspiration from George Harrison’s “Crackerbox Palace,” imbuing his song with a similarly layered texture and dense guitar work. The slide guitar adds a unique layer to the song, with each strum and pluck carefully interwoven to create a soundscape that mirrors the nostalgia and intimacy of the lyrics. Long’s attention to detail shines here, crafting a song where each element supports the overall atmosphere without overwhelming the vocals.
Recorded in Los Angeles, the track gained additional depth through Jay Watson’s punchy drumming and mixing skills. Watson, a multi-talented musician known for his work with Tame Impala and Pond, brought fresh energy to the song, elevating its rhythm and overall presence. Adding further depth, Shags Chamberlain’s synth work creates an ambient backdrop that enhances the track’s introspective mood. The result is a piece that feels simultaneously dense and restrained, a testament to the careful production choices.
Complementing the single is a mesmerizing music video directed by Carter McNeill. Shot and edited by Joon Voigt, and featuring video synthesizer effects by Julius Valledor, the visuals echo the song’s reflective nature with rich colors and a dreamlike aesthetic. The video offers a layered experience that reflects the complex emotions behind the track, capturing the sense of longing and closure in a way that visually resonates with Long’s lush sonic landscape.
With “I Saw You Turning Around,” Longplayer cements Mikey Long’s place as an artist willing to push boundaries while maintaining a timeless approach. This single speaks to his growing prowess as a songwriter and producer, showcasing a unique ability to blend classic and contemporary sounds seamlessly. Longplayer is shaping up to be a project that music lovers of all generations can appreciate, striking a balance between innovation and tradition.
Rol3ert (pronounced “Robert”) is making waves in the music world with his emotionally captivating single “meaning.” Released in January 2025, the track has already amassed over 400,000 views on YouTube, signaling that Rol3ert is an artist whose appeal extends far beyond his native Japan. With his unique blend of J-pop and alternative indie-pop, the song is a testament to the artist’s ability to combine traditional and contemporary sounds, creating a track that resonates with listeners globally.
What’s truly remarkable about “meaning” is how effortlessly Rol3ert blends J-pop elements with more universal indie-pop sensibilities. The track’s soaring melodies and introspective lyrics have made it a viral hit, and Rol3ert’s emotional delivery amplifies the song’s power. His voice is commanding yet vulnerable, capturing the complexity of the song’s themes. There’s an unmistakable depth to “meaning” that speaks to listeners no matter where they’re from, proving that music is a language that transcends borders.
The “meaning Remix Contest” launched on SURF MUSIC has taken the track’s journey even further, with global creators offering their own interpretations of the song. Out of thousands of submissions, Vietnamese producer KIDCOZY’s remix emerged as the winner. KIDCOZY brings an unexpected twist to “meaning,” infusing it with a gritty electric guitar riff that adds a raw, edgy energy to the track. The remix amplifies the song’s emotional power while giving it a new sonic flavor, showcasing the versatility and creativity of remix culture.
KIDCOZY’s remix introduces a bold, guitar-driven intro that immediately sets the track apart from the original. While the infectious chorus remains intact, the remix adds layers of intensity, with a new production style that brings an exciting urgency to the song. It’s a perfect example of how a remix can evolve a song, giving it new life while staying true to its emotional core. The collaboration between Rol3ert and KIDCOZY highlights the beauty of cross-cultural partnerships and the power of music to unite artists from different backgrounds.
Rol3ert’s upcoming “meaning EP” promises to build on this momentum, featuring a stripped-down piano version of the song alongside a diverse collection of remixes. As a rising star in the global music scene, Rol3ert’s ability to seamlessly blend East and West, J-pop and indie-pop, positions him as an artist to watch closely in the years ahead.
-
We Speak Music3 days agoRising Stars Roundup: Bantunani, Chris Errera, and More
-
We Speak Music3 days agoErvin Munir Drops Second Studio Album, “Pure and Simple”
-
We Speak Health6 days agoGino Black Premieres Powerful New Video Series: “I SURVIVED A LIVER TRANSPLANT”
-
We Speak Entertainment6 days agoDream Cinema Productions “Night Mistress” Now Available on Amazon Prime Via Adler Entertainment