Track Review: I Wish You Were Dead // Three Day Monk
The brainchild of multi-instrumentalist Tristan Nelson, Three Day Monk is a melding of Incubus, Paolo Nutini and Ben Howard. With intimate lyrics over emotive melodies, UK-based artist (for what he does is true artistry) can touch your soul with his eclecticism. Making his way onto the music scene in 2020 with well-received debut single ‘Take’, Three Day Monk has received coverage from RGM, The Other Side Reviews, Right Chord Music, Indie Top 39 and several online radio stations. The latest addition to his repertoire is the single ‘I wish you were dead’.
Adding sentiments of noir music, Three Day Monk’s ‘I wish you were dead’ has an element of darkness in it. With the eclectic combination of instrumentation and haunting vocals, the single is a gothic soundscape with some innovative twists. What I find particularly intriguing is the transition from a soothing, flowing melody to a brash, deadly stance illustrated with organic instruments. A hushed, almost whimsical piano beginning ending in a powerful, aggressive drum melody. While the instrumentation is exquisite, the addition of moving vocals makes the track evocative and provocative.
Inspired by the pandemic and long-term effects of living within this uncertain time, ‘I wish you were dead’ looks at isolation, despair and inner turmoil. The tale may follow a fictional character and his experiences, but the personal narrative delves into an intimate exploration of his psyche. A sonic representation of mental struggle, the track is an innovative showcase of existential truths in hollow society. With heartfelt lyricism, particularly the blunt “I wish you were dead” line at the end, enhances the desperation and anger oozing from this poignant single.