Malaysian-born musician Wong Diane grapples with loss and loneliness in melancholic lullaby, ‘Now Only Me’. Taken from the multi-instrumentalist’s debut EP titled ‘1st One Done’, the track holds a relatable darkness that grips the listener throughout.
Diane’s hushed and sombre vocals open the piece. Pleading ‘Join me in this journey, hear me in my story, come to see what I mean’, she immediately lays her heart on the line. The introduction of delicate piano sounds provides a solemn background to achingly honest lyricism.
Centring around the emotional turbulence of a relationship breakdown, the heartfelt track is some of Diane’s most vulnerable work to date. Ruminating on the lingering feelings of betrayal and sorrow, ‘Now Only Me’ offers an intimate look at the songwriter’s deepest thoughts.
With its minimalist approach to production, the track is as stripped back musically as it is lyrically. Leading vocals and piano melodies are carefully combined with subtle synths to create a captivating soundscape. Adopting a less is more approach throughout, the track offers a simple yet effective form of instrumental escapism.
On entering its final verse, Diane’s vocoded vocals offer a final glimmer of hope. Although painful, letting go of a past relationship seems to provide a small sense of relief: she is no longer constrained by her partner’s doubts. The opportunity for personal growth seems to have been realised in the final line, stating ‘Now only me, and gravity’.
Heartbreakingly beautiful ‘Now Only Me’ is a poignant reminder that sometimes being without someone can feel less lonely than staying with them.
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