The eighth single in the catalogue of singer-songwriter Garlen Lo is ‘Pretty Baby’, a romantic number written over twenty years ago when the Londoner was only seventeen. A favourite at family gatherings, Garlen decided it was time to show the world. I can see why.
I must admit that before I gave the song a listen I was sceptical. There are many times where a simple chord progression sounds bland or inauthentic, but on this occasion it doesn’t. Knowing ‘Pretty Baby’ was written by a teenager in love, the admittedly corny lyrics give the song a rawness and provides an opportunity for us to reminisce about the euphoria of being young and in love .
The time was right for Garlen to share a piece of his youth with the rest of us, so he has. Having added bass and a perfectly placed solo for this release, ‘Pretty Baby’ feels like a time machine to a forgotten feeling. It’s nostalgic but new. Claiming his Mastermind subject would be the Beatles, Garlen’s love for them is apparent throughout his writing and despite this being his ‘poppiest’ tune to date, rock and roll runs deep throughout.
Despite the lyrics evidently being those of a love stricken teen, the ‘Hong Kong Cockney’ really surprised me with his eighth release. Just because something is old doesn’t mean it’s outdated. A joyful singalong, ‘Pretty Baby’ backs this up perfectly. Maybe simple is best after all.
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