ROE - “Autopilot”
Photo by Ciara McMullan
Northern Ireland-based singer-songwriter ROE has just released the introspective indie folk sounds of “Autopilot,” a song for “anyone who isn’t where they’re supposed to be.”
To be very clear, ROE won us over with this simple pitch, but it does not hurt that “Autopilot” is a true delight to have enter your ears. Over the top of some delicately placed guitar chords, ROE promptly begins her emotionally-charged vocal performance. Her voice is wonderfully and warmly reminiscent to the likes of Lizzy McAlpine, with some soft hints of Lucy Dacus and Adrianne Lenker pitched in for good measure.
On the refrain, the glorious sound of a carefully layered vocal harmony emerges, guaranteed to bring comfort to any listeners who have not yet found their place in this world. As “Autopilot” progresses, a gentle rhythm section appears, allowing its beat to lend some soft propulsion as the bass provides a rich foundation. For ear candy, dancing notes from a lead guitar weave themselves into the arrangement.
About the track, ROE adds: “Marriage, babies, job security, the mortgage. It’s strange that. The expectations you put on yourself and that other people put on you before knowing for certain it’s what you want… I couldn’t help but feel like I should hurry up and get on the same page as them. And then I really thought about it. Like staring into blank space, out of body kind of deep thought. And I realised that I’m content with where I’m at.”
“Autopilot” will ebb and flow its way into your very existence, with profound lyrics that touch upon one of the universes greatest riddles– perfect for those times when you need a reminder that life is not a race and you’re right where you’re supposed to be.