Singer-songwriter David Arn has recently unveiled his latest offering, a poignant track titled ‘These Strange Days’. A single crafted in collaboration with UK-based musician and producer Tobias Wilson, it’s a lyrical ballad that serves as a heartfelt expression of longing for simpler times, free from the current landscape of political turmoil and societal unease. As Arn himself puts it, "These strange days shake me to the core, I try to recall comfort that came before".
Though separated by the Atlantic, with David residing on the East Coast of the United States, he and Tobias have forged a creative partnership spanning over a decade. Their connection seems to transcend geographical boundaries, resulting in a seamless collaborative spirit that does every song justice. The new single is no exception, and Tobias’ production perfectly captures the emotional core of the song, weaving a bittersweet guitar accompaniment that feels linked to Arn's evocative lyrics.
Arn's inspiration for ‘These Strange Days’ is rooted deeply in his own history. Born in a steel town in Ohio, he feels a strong connection to his relatives still living and buried there, sharing, “I live on the East Coast but was born in a steel town in Ohio. Many relatives reside there. Many are buried there. It seems they deserve better than what they are being handed now.”
The track stands as a potent reminder of the emotional power inherent in folk music, offering a wistful and reflective gaze upon "rusted factories" and "overcast skies". True to Arn’s signature style, his vocals take centre stage, gently cascading over the melodic acoustic guitar lines crafted by Wilson. His delivery carries a weary yet resolute tone, perfectly conveying reflective lines such as, “there’s melody in memory, of a morning dove singing in your window tree.”
Since 2010, David has released four albums, with a new one, ‘Ventriloquism’, on the horizon. Along with his previous single, ‘What a Heart Must Do’, ‘These Strange Days’ provides a powerful glimpse of what we can expect from the new album.
For more from David Arn, be sure to follow him on Facebook and YouTube, or connect via his website.
