Scotland's new songwriting duo, After Reno, have emerged from the shadows with a new single that's both chilling and captivating. ‘Backlight’, released just a few days ago, reveals a mature sound steeped in Americana grit and folk intimacy.
A duo of Phil Tobin (vocals, harmonica, and keys) and Chris Gould (backing vocals and guitar), After Reno made their debut earlier this year with ‘I’ll Burn Away’, a hidden gem amongst Spotify’s ever-growing catalogue. The new single, however, promises to be a far more impactful event, solidifying their sound and carving out a timeless listening experience.
The song opens with a gentle, sombre sound, building a drifting melody through solitary harmonica and delicate acoustic guitar. It’s a tone that lingers beautifully as the song progresses, conjuring up a stark, emotive atmosphere that is balanced by the unfolding harmonies. Tobin's vocals emerge like a spectre, drawing the listener into a world of stark beauty and emotional vulnerability.
The lyrics are poetic and evocative, painting vivid pictures of desolate landscapes and internal struggles. The music is sparse yet powerful, utilising instruments like keys, harmonica, and slide guitar to create a soundscape that's both intimate and expansive.
Tobin's baritone vocals are the undeniable centrepiece. Instantly evocative of Nick Cave's gravitas and Ian McCulloch's crooning melancholy, Tobin weaves tales of poetic darkness and emotional depth. Gould's backing vocals and guitar work intertwine seamlessly, adding layers of texture and atmosphere to the haunting melodies.
While echoes of Ryan Adams, Bob Dylan, and The Black Keys can be heard in the duo's eclectic influences, After Reno have crafted a sound that is uniquely their own and destined to forget a connection.
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