Ben Aubergine – Farewell

Chicago-based singer-songwriter Ben Aubergine is back with another captivating composition that will immediately resonate with all those listeners who appreciate music performed straight from the heart. In his recent works, he explored a more straightforward indie rock sound, but this time he leans much more towards acoustic rock, a sound he has been known for since the 90s. And surely, “Farewell” is one of those compositions he wrote during that era and carries a similar ambiance comparable to “Fine China,” an extended play material released in 1997. This song predates that particular recording, as it was written in 1996, but it has been adorned with qualities that align with contemporary music production trends, while a subtle touch of nostalgia spices things up and elevates the entire composition to new heights. Lyrically, “Farewell” differs from many breakup songs mainly because it explores the relief after going through the breakup process and the very moment where the separation from the partner transforms from loss to realization that maybe it’s better to be alone for a while. With his poetic storytelling ability, Ben Aubergine knows how to transform any theme into an epic sonic voyage, and that’s the case here, as this song gradually reveals carefully, thoughtfully, and wisely crafted lyrics. Sonically, “Farewell” might be an acoustic rock song, but if you dive deeper into the core, you’ll notice many other styles like acoustic pop, alt-folk, indie folk, even maybe some psych music, but everything is so carefully and thoughtfully measured not to spoil the initial sonic direction. Years of songwriting, composing, arranging, and producing are vividly hearable here, and although this composition was written in 1996, you can hear the maturity and experience shining in every segment. It’s definitely one of those songs that, once you press play, immediately gets under your skin and refuses to let go.

Ben Aubergine’s creativity goes beyond comprehension throughout the entire composition. You’ll especially notice that in the way he composed all the guitar layers. The guitar work definitely showcases his tremendous experience, knowledge, and talent, as each chord progression, percussive articulation, and accentuation elevates this song. These sonic maneuvers are not only profoundly melodic but also percussive in many ways, replacing the need for traditional rhythmic patterns and percussion. Throughout the entire song, your listening apparatus is treated to a comprehensive collection of tastefully, wisely, thoughtfully assembled arpeggiated chord progressions. You may notice how some segments lean into those nearly psychedelic waters, while the song retains its calm, soothing, relaxing, ethereal quality. Besides that, you’ll hear each strum over the song adds more detail, slap over the guitar body provides the subtle beats, while the natural studio reverb offers more space. But the guitar isn’t the only instrument you’ll stumble upon this sonic journey. Quite the contrary, you may notice how a decent portion of leads, themes, melodies, and pads comes from the outstanding cello performance. It’s one of those instruments that provides more depth and detail to the entire composition, and you’ll also notice how the interplays between guitars and this particular instrument are so perfectly constructed. There are also bass undertones woven into the guitars, rumbling around so subtly and smoothly, and contributing warmth, clarity, groove, and detail. But it’s so carefully incorporated into the song’s core, without spoiling any other instrument on this epic sonic journey. Of course, without Ben Aubergine’s marvelous vocal performance, this composition wouldn’t be complete. His soulful, passionate, smooth yet a bit raspy voice glides over all those low, mid, and high notes delivered by the mentioned instrumentation, offering the emotion that certainly elevates everything to new heights. The way his vocal performance blends with guitars and cello will impress you in so many ways. Although he narrates a story about going through a breakup and realizing sometimes it’s better to be alone, his voice definitely acts as another instrumental layer in this sonic equation, bringing more melody and harmony over the top, and making “Farewell” even more ear-appealing and complex. It’s such a beautiful vocal performance that emphasizes all the orchestral qualities and makes this song even more fascinating.

With “Farewell,”  Ben Aubergine once again proves he’s one of the greatest singer-songwriters Chicagoland has to offer. It’s one of those songs that not only captivates you in all possible ways, but also showcases all the maturity, knowledge, and experience of the artist. “Farewell” is such a beautiful acoustic rock ballad crafted by an artist who deeply understands the hardships of love. It’s a deep examination of emotions, moods, and post-breakup situations, written, composed, and produced by a singer-songwriter who unquestionably writes some of the finest songs the acoustic rock scene has seen in years. Do not miss this gem!