Department S is one of those bands that has stood the test of time, and their latest single, So Far Away, is a testament to their longevity as a band. Famous for their early eighties hit single,Is Vic There?, the band continues to shapeshift boundaries of alternative, indie rock, mod, and post-punk sound. Their tremendous musicianship and experience are more than evident on So Far Away, and they unquestionably breathed some fresh air into these longevous music genres. Every listener will effortlessly point out a perfect blend of different styles in their music. They unified complementary music genres seamlessly to create a unique sound that will undoubtedly appeal to music lovers from various musical backgrounds. Their comprehensive collection of finest musical properties borrowed from the nineties alternative, eighties indie, mod revival, pop rock, power pop, or post-punk defines a catchy, hypnotic, mesmerizing, and cathartic ambiance that will suit even the pickiest fans of these genres. There is no better way to describe their music than to say it is a perfect fusion of different worlds.
So Far Away serves as a perfect example of how the beforementioned styles work harmoniously together. The introduction is captivating, with organic instrumentations blending flawlessly with synth beats. The song starts with a fully energetic rhythm section, which sets the tone for the rest of the track. As the composition progresses, post-punk-inspired chord progressions add a gritty texture to the song, and this technique perfectly suits the remainder of the included orchestrations. You’ll also notice how equally complex, warm-sounding, vividly hearable basslines give more clarity to the entire song while the skillfully performed lead vocal harmonies decorate every segment. The chorus section is a pop-infused moment, with soaring synths and clean vocals that give this song an edge.
This number features guest appearances from Baz Warne (The Stranglers), and it is more than crystal clear that the band is not resting on their laurels. They continue to push creatively, exploring different sounds while maintaining their unique style. For example, So Far Away has taken the post-punk genre to a new level, and it’s refreshing to hear their approach to this particular style. They gave more depth, detail, and complexity, and that’s the case with the remainder of the genres they explored through this track. Therefore, Department S once again proved its relevance, and So Far Away will be right up your alley if you’re looking for some excellent indie music. The single is available on all streaming services.
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