The fact that “Tired Eyes” is slightly reminiscent of two of my favorite artists who make music in a similar folk-pop/singer-songwriter vein makes it an easy sell to me right from the off. In it, I hear both the commercial accessibility and deft penmanship of David Gray and the emotive, floating textures of Damien Rice, which is the finest company to find yourself in.
There is a wonderfully subtle build to the song too, rising from voice and guitar and incrementally growing to a cinematically rich crescendo via a poised yet propulsive beat, chiming and indeed charming piano lines, and a gorgeous wash of cello that flows into every space, softening every edge and enhancing every moment.
The song is also a testament to the connectivity of the modern world, especially in regards to music making – with Alasdair Henry (of indie folk duo The Post) recording his cello in Australia, James based in the UK, and being produced and mixed by MTCHLR in the US, “Tired Eyes” is very much a product of the modern age.
A song of love, loss, and longing, it is a reflection on those moments in the wake of a relationship that is no more, a song that is both personal and relatable, intimate yet instantly recognizable.
A clever song and a great narrative, Indie-folk has a new champion.
