JW Francis - “Pretending”
From New York City, JW Francis has recently released the irresistible indie pop rock track, “Pretending.”
“Pretending” is overflowing with vibrant kaleidoscopic layers that dance and weave vividly across the track. Exhilarating bursts of melody are provided by the quick electric guitar lines, which hypnotically and expressively skip across the groove. In contrast, splashes of slide guitar fluidly ascend and descend giving off an almost Beach Boys-like vibe. Soft pad layers are added to lend a sense of warmth and depth, yet there is a slight psychedelic tinge to the flute-like tones that help make the track even more immersive and captivating.
Amplifying the upbeat and energetic vibes of the track is the buoyant and brisk drum groove. It propels the song forward with an almost relentless intensity, encouraging you to move and nod your head. The thick bass provides a strong low-end presence, enhancing the feel-good factor while solidly anchoring the composition.
JW Francis’s vocals are wonderfully authentic and characterful. I mentioned this when I had the pleasure of reviewing “Turtleneck Weather,” another superb song you should check out. There’s a hint of Bob Dylan in the delivery, with the same rounded phrasing and tone that is simply lush. Adding to the musical layers of the track are the backing vocals, which are used more as melodic textural elements rather than as harmonious support. Similarly, spoken-word samples are utilised in the same fashion.
JW Francis has knocked the proverbial ball out of the park; “Pretending” is simply a banger and there is no other way of describing it. This track has a place on everyone’s playlist.