Gemma Hayes - “Hardwired”
Irish singer-songwriter Gemma Hayes has just released the soul-stirring indie rock track, “Hardwired.”
This track has a very pleasing vibe, which I can only describe as sounding like a driving, anthemic PJ Harvey track. Opening to electric rhythm guitar, the scene is set with a steady and slightly mesmerising groove. Coated in a lush dose of reverb, the atmosphere is warm, expansive, and filled with a sense of contemplation. The track soon breaks into the earworm of a chorus, which is built to get you singing at the top of your lungs.
“Hardwired” has a wonderful sense of ebb and flow, with textures applied thoughtfully on top of the rhythm guitar to create a satisfying sense of tension and release. This varies from the bass, which switches from melodically following the vocal melody to driving urgent grooves, splashes of jangly guitar, lively tambourine, handclaps, weaving synths, and a steady drum groove. The music is rousing and powerful.
Hayes’ vocal is strikingly emotive, switching from meditative, soulful intimacy to more assertive tones over the chorus sections. It is also filled with expressive articulations and inflections. Backing vocals tenderly provide support over key areas, making the track highly compelling. “Hardwired” is definitely one of those bangers that the crowd wants to hear at a gig; it is well-written, emotionally-charged, and is bound to quickly become one of your favourite songs.