Live Review: Lonelyspeck wants us all to have a 'Happy New Year'

I'm pretty sure I've started every article I've written recently with '2016 was shit', constructed in various ways. I can't help it - it was shit, and nothing you can say can alter my opinion on that. However, this time it might be appropriate, as LONELYSPECK has brought us into 2017 with a gorgeous cut that makes me forget that last year ever happened. 'Happy New Year' marks a huge moment for the Adelaide-based producer and a huge moment for Australian music; it is proving to us that, beyond all the nonsense, loss and political clusterfuck that we had to endure last year, brighter stars lie ahead and not all hope is lost.

'Happy New Year' is a six minute sonic adventure that straps you in and doesn't let up once. It's evocative and soothing, as Lonelyspeck's dreamy vocals escort you through a world of mystical synths and melt blissfully into the rich beats and sparse melody. The entire cut is so spacious showing that the producer, born Sione Teumohenga, already has a carefully carved skill set that veterans haven't mastered yet. There's a real understanding of how to use space to your advantage as a musician, and that alone could set Lonelyspeck up for a sure-to-be monstrous 2017. At the same time, the song is so lush and emotional that it could soundtrack any movie.

The song is our second glimpse into Lonelyspeck's upcoming EP Lave, which is out March 3 via TEEF Records. It follows on from 'All My Skin on the Air', which possessed some serious Frank Ocean vibes as the producer once again demonstrated the emotional weight he can embody through every word uttered from his mouth. The conviction in which he breathes love, pain and everything in between makes every word feel just as important as the next - a trait not often found among newcomers.

If this song is anything to go by, Lonelyspeck is going to have a very happy new year indeed.

Words by JACKSON LANGFORD

LISTEN TO MORE NEW MUSIC HERE

SEE ALSO

LONELYSPECK WILL SUBMERSE YOU IN 'ALL MY SKIN ON THE AIR'

LONELYSPECK, 'WRING'