As we discover the chamber-pop universe created by Irish creative Laura Ampersand, we are reminded of how much warmth and reassurance music can offer, if done well and from a place of artistic authenticity. ‘Middle’ is the perfect evidence of that. Marking Ampersand’s third single to date, the track rejoices in a sea of sumptuous violins, heartwarming pianos and organic drums.
Known by day as Laura Ryder, Ampersand has developed a sonic style that’s endearing and decidedly elegant. The aural matter is soft and gentle, but packed with raw emotions and hypnotic poignancy. Her vocals feel malleable and light, always wrapped in a choral sheen. From a lyrical standpoint, ‘Middle’ continues Ampersand’s reflective streak, embracing nostalgia and introspection with honesty and vulnerability. In particular, the new single focuses on Laura’s quest for solid ground, as she finds herself oscillating between a bittersweet past and an uncertain future.
In that sense, the song is extremely relatable. Everyone living in big cities such as London and New York has experienced the feeling of losing the version of themselves they once knew. People relocate elsewhere. Relationships end. As a new life phase rises from the ashes of the past, people ask themselves what remains of who they once were. As Ampesand explains: “The song was written in one of those in-between transitional moments, half trying to hang onto a past version of yourself, half trying to move onto the next stage – yet nothing seems to be falling into place.”
Recommended! Discover ‘Middle’ now: