Debuting as the lead single from the inaugural album “The Carousel,” “Animal” by BACKSTROM, released on January 18th, stands as a testament to the artist’s musical ingenuity. The song not only serves as an introduction to the unique soundscape of the album but also boldly asserts itself as a distinctive piece in the contemporary music scene. BACKSTROM, the songwriter and visionary behind the project, collaborated with a cadre of talented session musicians to bring this sonic exploration to life.
While BACKSTROM operates as the sole songwriter, “Animal” features the artistic contributions of exceptional session musicians. Vocalist Bart Topher takes the lead on eight songs and contributes lyrics to three. Fransisco Paz provides the rhythmic backbone with drums and percussion, Luca Giannotti crafts guitar brilliance on the folk-infused tracks, including some bass work, and Kimberly Faith lends her harmonious touch to six songs.
The assembly of this musical ensemble is a testament to modern creativity. Drawing on the collaborative spirit of the digital age, BACKSTROM enlisted the talents of these musicians through the online platform Fiverr.com, creating a diverse yet cohesive musical tapestry. The sound of “Animal” and the broader album is shaped by a range of influences. From the poetic depth of Leonard Cohen to the raw magnetism of Mark Lanegan, and even echoing the timeless resonance found in the Rolling Stones’ “Exile on Main Street,” BACKSTROM draws inspiration from a spectrum of musical luminaries.
While live performances may not be the primary focus of BACKSTROM’s endeavors, the project is a celebration of the art of songwriting. The emphasis lies in crafting compositions that resonate deeply, eschewing the need for grand stages or festival crowds.
One review aptly describes ‘Animal’: “A testament to Backstrom’s brilliance, the track captivates listeners with its storytelling core and organic allure that’s refreshingly vibrant.” This acclaim highlights the song’s ability to draw audiences into a vivid narrative.
The album’s production journey began with a demo created by BACKSTROM, to which the session musicians added their instrumental and vocal contributions from various locations. This collaborative effort, though “home-made” in essence, showcases the global connectivity of contemporary music. The final touches, including mixing and mastering, were skillfully handled by Gabe Wold, with additional support from Tommy Jones in refining the English lyrics.
“Animal” delves into the inner recesses of the modern human psyche, exploring the untamed and primal aspects within. The song serves as a sonic safari, guiding listeners through the wilderness of our own instincts and desires. In the words of BACKSTROM, “The song has a unique sound.” This succinct statement encapsulates the essence of “Animal,” a composition that boldly ventures into unexplored musical territories, offering listeners a fresh and distinctive auditory experience.
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