We Speak Music

Shannon Smith Unveils Video For “Valentines Day” – A Soulful Ode to Love and Redemption

Published

1 year ago

February 15, 2024

Don Reed

In time for the season of love, Shannon Smith has released his profound new single “Valentine’s Day”, offering a musical narrative that delves deep into the heart of what it means to truly love and forgive. Crafted aboard a houseboat in Augusta, this song stands as a poignant declaration, born from Smith’s personal journey of reconciliation and his desire to express an authentic love that surpasses the mere act of confession.

Crafted amidst the emotional turbulence and subsequent healing, “Valentine’s Day” transcends the typical love song. It delves into the heart-wrenching moments that test the bonds of love, echoing Smith’s journey towards redemption and the resilience of a relationship weathering its stormiest hour. This narrative of vulnerability and honesty is masterfully woven into the soulful melodies and poignant lyrics of the track.

Following the single’s release, Shannon has now unveiled an equally compelling music video for the track. This visual accompaniment is expected to further explore the themes of the song, offering a deeper insight into the story of love and redemption that Smith bravely lays bare.

Recorded across three renowned studios, including Nashville’s Compass Studios, “Valentine’s Day” is a rich tapestry of Americana and pop soul, brought to life with the gospel-infused backing vocals of the acclaimed McCrary Sisters. Their Grammy-nominated talent adds a profound depth to a song that is not just an ode to love but a testament to the courage it takes to face one’s truths.

We Speak Music

Waz-u drops ambient gem ‘Vermillion’ ft. Lilyg

Published

5 hours ago

April 25, 2025

Don Reed

London-based multi-instrumentalist and producer Waz-u returns with his second album, Preludes: Dusk Psalms, set for release on 16 May 2025 via independent label Biodiversity. The 15-track record further refines the artistic depth of his debut, blending electronic textures and classical compositional techniques in an intricate, immersive listening experience.

Ahead of the album release, Waz-u is dropping an exclusive vocal version of ‘Vermillion: G Major’ from the album, accompanied by its original instrumental version. ‘Vermillion’ with Lilyg will be released on 18 April 2025, evoking intimate indie-folk and pop and follows the release of a vocal version of ‘Lament’ with Tom Norrington. ‘The singles are a way to give a voice to the atmosphere of the record and to lyrically encapsulate some of the themes explored,’ explains Waz-u. ‘Lily and Tom are good friends of mine and have both been listening to early iterations of these preludes – it felt right to involve them directly on this record.’

‘Preludes: Dusk Psalms’ marks a new branch of Waz-u’s emerging sound, guided by the duality of tradition and innovation. Combining his musical roots in early ‘90s dub techno and classical music, the album weaves carefully layered synthesizers and electronics to evoke the ambience of sacred music — from the gentle timbres of a choir or an organ to the quiet, open, and reverberating spaces of a church. Also featured throughout the album is experimental musician G9 LUV, who creates textures and drones by bowing his bass guitar, resulting in cello-like sounds. The release follows Waz-u’s 2024 debut LP, Prayer For Dawn, which merged dub, techno, and electronica in an exploration of the ritualistic traditions associated with both organized religion and dance.

Bringing the album’s themes to life, Waz-u will celebrate the release of Preludes: Dusk Psalms with a special performance at Our Holy Redeemer in Clerkenwell, London on 14 May 2025. Set against the church’s resonant acoustics, the event will feature live performance arrangements, including a choir, with further details to be announced soon.