Liverpool artist Frend returns with his new single Beautiful Stranger (Beautiful World).
A really nostalgic creation, this single has clear ‘80s influences really engrained into it. From the swirling synths that are ever-present throughout it to the minimalistic melodies, it is definitely a throwback piece which feels like a nod to several different elements of that decade. Where it succeeds well though is by not feeling dated while doing this. It doesn’t come across as simply a reissuing of a already defunct sound, but rather a tribute to it, bought into the modern era expertly.
His fifth release since starting this solo project at the start of the year, this track follows in the footsteps of the previous pieces, once again having an incredibly spacious feel to the sound. That being said, it definitely has a more vibrant feel to it than his other releases, defined mainly by those aforementioned synths which lift any gloominess in this sound heavenward.
There is a strange melancholic feeling which runs through Beautiful Stranger, coming mainly from the lyrics. Frend tells a story struggling to move on from unrequited love, and finding solace in sharing in the adrenaline of strangers at a gig. It’s a very bittersweet story, but its one I’m sure most can relate to, and emphasises brilliantly the power music has to heal and bring peace.
This is Frend’s best release to date. It’s the track where he has committed most to creating a big sound, and seems to mimic perfectly what he is actually talking about in the lyrics. It’s a sound you can get lost in and for three-and-a-bit minutes forget about everything else. A brilliant effort, and hopefully a sign of what’s to come from him.
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