Luna Keller - “The Philosopher”

Photo: Roger Keller

When last we heard from Luna Keller, she had just won us over with “Overgrown,” a fantastic duet with Dom Malin. But listen here, ye collectors of fine folk music, she’s got a new single out by the name of “The Philosopher.”

In case you haven’t noticed, we’re big fans of songs that provoke introspection, so as you press play on “The Philosopher,” know that you’ll be getting just that. This isn’t some love song or a tune about heartache– this track sends you straight into the epicenter of soul-searching. But, through her lyrics, Keller warns us not to get so lost in thought that we miss out on life.

“The Philosopher” begins with a softly finger-plucked acoustic guitar that is promptly joined by Keller’s soothing and poised vocal. She delightfully narrates this metaphor, bolstered by harmonies that glide through the back of the track, eventually supported by some bass and strings. She sings, “Always on his mind… Never in his heart,” as though echoing the dangers of falling into the abyss that is overthinking and, therefore, never being able to fully love.

The second verse brings some percussion and the storytelling continues as the song climbs through a crescendo. Setting the lyrical content to the side, there is a fantastic moment where the production winds down just enough to let Keller’s vocal work shine for a moment in a cappella. And it is this moment that will likely cause you to hit play, over and over again, until you’ve memorized this contemplative tale.

-TM