We Speak Music

RAPHAEL Reveals New R&B and Pop Single ‘Dreams’

Published

1 year ago

October 14, 2023

Singer-songwriter RAPHAEL returns with his brand-new single ‘Dreams’; the R&B and pop-infused offering that is exquisitely crafted and effectively displays his vocal prowess and masterful songwriting abilities.

The production combines Raphael’s voice with piano, sequenced drums, violins, and background vocals. The finished product resembles an angelic choir that delivers a positive, melodic, and ethereal atmosphere.

On his way home from work, Raphael tinkered around with the chorus and the verses that he had created until he decided to mash them together. His reward for this experimentation was the song feeling whole for the first time.

RAPHAEL comments on the track, “My favourite line from the song is “when the heart intercepts the mind, in peace, you feel aligned” … a lot of times we struggle for a sign and do we think with our heart or decide with our head and the truth is in love both the head and the heart are in agreement and you are at peace because it feels like it’s truth.”

‘Dreams’ is accompanied by a music video that tells the story of an astronaut who is stranded in a desolate desert with a grand piano as he sings about his dream love. On the inspiration, RAPHAEL describes, “I like the astronaut as a metaphor and a beacon for humanity. An Astronaut can be anyone behind the mask. A symbol of love which is inclusive of everyone and we all have a right to dream and to love.”

We Speak Music

Etherdene’s “Forsaker” Captures the Power of Letting Go

Published

9 hours ago

April 1, 2025

Philomena Marie

Etherdene’s ‘Forsaker’ is a revelation in both sound and sentiment. The track marks a new chapter in her career, blending the vulnerability of heartbreak with the resilience of moving on, all wrapped in an electrifying package of synth-pop and indie-pop. The result is a song that is both deeply personal and universally relatable, a cathartic journey that encourages listeners to let go and rise above their challenges.

At the heart of ‘Forsaker’ is Etherdene’s exploration of emotional struggle and the painful yet liberating act of letting go. Drawing from her own experiences with the end of a professional partnership, Etherdene’s lyrics are a raw and powerful expression of inner conflict. The line, “Brand new member in the club of quitters, the uniform compliments my eyes,” encapsulates the complex emotions of giving up, flipping the narrative on its head to reveal the strength in choosing to walk away.

‘Forsaker’ is a triumph. Etherdene’s decision to incorporate synth bass arps brings an air of 80s nostalgia while keeping the track fresh and forward-thinking. The electric guitar work from Cory Clark adds a layer of dynamism to the song, complementing its mood perfectly. However, it’s the drums – played by Warren van Wyk – that truly elevate the track, infusing it with energy and warmth that feels almost magical.

What sets ‘Forsaker’ apart is its empowering message. Etherdene isn’t merely recounting a painful experience; she’s showing us the strength that comes from letting go of something that no longer serves you. It’s a message of courage and self-love, encouraging listeners to prioritize their emotional well-being over the fear of walking away from something that seems promising but ultimately isn’t right.

‘Forsaker’ is yet another example of Etherdene’s impressive versatility as an artist. From her early days in the Afrikaans band Kaktus to her current solo career, she has continually pushed the boundaries of what indie-pop can be. With ‘Forsaker’, she’s taken an emotional experience and turned it into a musical triumph that’s as empowering as it is catchy. This track is bound to resonate with anyone who’s ever had to make the difficult decision to walk away – and Etherdene’s ability to capture that moment in song is nothing short of remarkable.