It's not too often that a track can evoke so many feels in two and a half minutes.
North Arm is the brainchild of Roderick Smith, also known for his work on Firekites. "Lately" is his long-awaited new single, a follow-up to "Hollow Days" from debut EP Thought Lines.
Delicate, intricate guitars immediately demand your attention, transporting you to somewhere deep within yourself. The multilayered vocals gently float along, as the airy melody gracefully begins to grow.
Save for some rolling cymbals, it's only in the final minute that additional instruments come in, building a dramatic, sweeping soundscape. The vocals kick it up a few notches, and a distorted, distinctly psych-glam guitar shows its face for a brief yet glorious moment.
The piece swiftly rounds off, lowering back to the tranquil serenity that carried the piece most of the way. A truly emotional, elegant track.
"Lately" is a glimpse into North Arm's forthcoming three-track EP, set for a November release.