Caleb Darger - “Quanah”
Salt Lake City-based singer-songwriter Caleb Darger returns to the blog with “Quanah,” an ethereally-charged, folksy single inspired by the story of Quanah Parker.
As most of the world dreads the inevitability of the approaching workweek, Darger provides us with some mellifluous respite on this quiet Sunday in May. And while you stare into the dark soul of your coffee mug, allow “Quanah” to fill you ears with its luminous display of gently finger-plucked guitar.
Above the quiet hum of the Earth, Darger’s vocal enters as though an old friend determined to rescue you from your distress. His voice effortlessly explores his range, from a smooth, lower register to a breathy and delicate falsetto, revealing a dreamy sonic landscape, tinged in the melancholy of US events.
As “Quanah” progresses, more elements emerge, such as some soft notes from the keys and swelling, atmospheric tones from a synth. Layers upon layers of vocals are added as additional guitar textures emerge, resulting in a wide and cinematic listening experience that essentially forces us to return for multiple spins.
Amidst the subdued pulse from a kick drum, another highlight includes a glorious palette of color dispensed via the pedal steel. Darger wrote “Quanah” during the protests against the Dakota Access Pipeline, culminating in a song that will stir your emotions on multiple levels, from its exquisite demonstration of musical textures to its somber subject matter.
Connect with Caleb Darger: Instagram | Soundcloud | Spotify | Bandcamp
-HD