Elements of Love
UK duo Slow Club’s newest album One Day All of This Won’t Matter Anymore is romantic, hauntingly beautiful and full of exquisitely echoey vocals. Once the listener becomes completely immersed in the album, it moves through nature’s elements: fire (“Where the Light Gets Lost”), water (“In Waves”) and earth (“Silver Morning”). The duo then uses these metaphors to discuss themes of love, heartbreak and relationships. Charles Watson and Rebecca Taylor are undeniably compatible in their respective geniuses. They have proven that this is a new age for love songs; one in which a classic sound with a modern soul twist is appreciated. There is not a single bad song on this album – although some do stand out more than others.
“Where the Light Gets Lost” catches the listener’s attention immediately, which makes sense as it is placed at the beginning of the album. The song is effectively simple. It exudes a calmness that slips one into tranquility and peacefulness, comparable to a slow dance in which each synchronized movement lights up the room. The reference to light in relation to love is quite brilliant. People often relate to one another through their energy. Energy is light. Everyone’s light burns differently. Conversely, darkness may signify a relationship’s end. The theme of this track embodies the reality of life. Watson’s soothing and dream-like voice merely adds to the aura.
The appropriately named third track, “In Waves,” boasts lyrics that impressively compare relationships to water, establishing a wonderfully vivid metaphor for love. Love is like the ever-changing nature of waves. There are high and low tides. Taylor sings of the rough waters of a past relationship, stating: “staring at the pages of the shit you missed, hoping you will find a way to change.” These words are sung in a country/folk melody that is also evident within the rhythm guitar section. Taylor’s voice is strong, assertive and full of life. The entire track feels grounded, rooted to the Earth, while its sorrowful existence is swiftly piercing to the heart.
“Silver Morning” is a bit more fun, embracing the classic sound of a 1960s love song. It is upbeat, marking a feel-good moment on the album. There are continued mentions of light and darkness, which reinforce the elemental themes presented throughout the album. However, this time the lyrics allude to earth and air, revealing a connection between love and a precious silver morning memory. Watson sings, “…Everything you had to say. In the silver of my morning, in the darkness of my day.”
One Day All of This Wont Matter Anymore is smart and sexy. The lyrics are not only relatable, but also wonderfully poetic, explaining various aspects of relationships in relation to the beauty of water, fire, earth and air. The album is a folksy, electronic combination with a soulful core. It is an irresistible work, to say the least.
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