Dover Lynn Fox - “Winter Son”
Photo by Jen Squires
Drawing inspiration from the likes of Florence and The Machine, Travis, and Mazzy Star, Canadian singer-songwriter Dover Lynn Fox lands securely within our wheelhouse with “Winter Son,” a seasonal blend of Americana and deep, folksy introspection.
A quick drum fill gets things started, introducing a full and moderately upbeat arrangement, which delicately contrasts with the song’s subject matter. A guitar immediately starts to pour out an ear-worm melody, drawing in the listener and leaving us yearning to hear the rest of the track. Well played, Fox… well played.
Fox’s vocal gently sweeps into the song, confidently distributing tones that are warmly reminiscent of Kacey Musgraves, Phoebe Bridgers, and even some of the darker tunes from First Aid Kit. In the midst of the first verse, the trusted guitar melody returns and it is quite clear that “Winter Son” is ready for the radio.
Some pleasant resonance from a piano softly pads the production, bringing a richness to the track while also widening the soundscape; however, the real prize resides within the tender vocal harmonies on the chorus sections, which we simply cannot get enough of– as luck would have it, these harmonies remain for the second verse, ensuring the listening pleasure of all who hear.
About “Winter Son,” Fox adds: “I believe my initial intention (though songwriting doesn’t always feel intentional to me) was to write a song about the sadness and fear that I felt… And then I began writing and the words flowed out and a different story took form, one without fear or darkness, but instead light, connection and faith.”
Despite its title, “Winter Son” is a melodic, introspective journey that can be enjoyed year round. And as we await the next single from Dover Lynn Fox, please join us in faithfully spinning this one nonstop.
-HD