The phrase power pop both says exactly what it is in those two words and yet, as a genre, remains a broad and varied affair. And if at one end of the spectrum you find low-slung rock-and-roll-driven guitarists looking to build the bridge between The Beatles and The Stones, songs such as ‘Hidden Power’ sit at the other end, with the emphasis more on pop than power.
But that isn’t to say that it doesn’t drive along, isn’t exciting and full of life, isn’t sparking with energy, euphoria even, it certainly has all those aspects and elements, but it bathes more in the more delicate kaleidoscopic glow of a Beach Boys infused sound than opting to play with heavier sonics.
And it is all the more brilliant for this lightness of touch, blending groove and grace into an effortless and accessible piece of poised pop, a tune that is subtle and seductive, carrying you along in its sonic charms, whether you want to go or not.
But ‘Hidden Power’ is more than just a great song; it is a poignant and purposeful one, too. Being both an NHS doctor and multi-instrumental songwriter, Euplasia is perfectly placed to speak on often difficult and misunderstood topics such as autism and neurodiversity, and ‘Hidden Power’ is his anthem to such.
It is a reminder that difference and disability are not things to be overcome; they are not conditions that hold you back, and they do not make you less or inferior to those around you. On the contrary, that uniqueness, that different way of looking at the world, that more creative and less conformative way of moving through life, is actually your strength, it is what makes you you, it is actually your ‘Hidden Power.’
Vive la difference!
