Track Review: Shots Fired… // The Lonely Together
With ease and elegance, The Lonely Together take people on a journey through the complexities of life with their music. Hailing from Scotland, The Lonely Together is the brainchild of singer-songwriter Mike Baillie – a project that shares passionate melodies with engaging lyricism. Having “…earned his stripes under the wing of Snow Patrol’s Gary Lightbody in the indie bustle of early-noughties Glasgow”, Baillie has some experience in the music scene; however, he continues to carve his own niche that is completely unlike anything I’ve heard before. One of the latest additions to his critically acclaimed discography is the single ‘Shots Fired…’
Already having a reputation for enthusiastic music, Mike Baillie uses his experiences as a foundational influence for The Lonely Together. The follow-up to the indie-rock inspired ‘Keep A Secret’, ‘Shots Fired…’ adopts a slower, smoother and more flowing sound. Rather haunting with a hazy ambience, there is a touch of dream-pop in the mix, but it transcends all genres. However, I can say that the movement from upbeat to steady slowness showcases The Lonely Together’s innovativeness and versatility. In fact, as ‘Shots Fired…’ is one of the singles off his multi-faceted EP Everything Viewed Backwards Through The Rearviewmirror, it is clear the lad has natural talent.
Melodically, The Lonely Together astounds me with ‘Shots Fired…’ having a powerful impact beneath a languid tune. The thing is, while the melody itself is incredible, there is a depth in lyricism showcasing Baillie’s poetic songwriting skills. Exposing vulnerabilities and fragility, Mike cuts to the core with the simple, yet equally complex, question of “when was the last time that you loved someone?” As I said, it seems a simple query but the sentimentality behind the words is intricate and lasting. This is my first experience of The Lonely Together’s profoundness and I can’t wait to hear more!