The chamber pop ensemble Seafarers was founded in 2018 in the busy center of London. They create a timeless and new sound by expertly fusing the subtleties of pop, jazz, and indie rock. Matthew Herd, a multi-talented songwriter with collaborations under his belt with Glass Animals, Jacob Collier, and The Howl & Hum, is the band’s frontman. His goal for Seafarers was to form a group of musicians that could use complex, multi-layered compositions to explore the deep waters of human emotion and experience.
Joining Herd in this venture are six long-term musical collaborators who bring their own unique flair to the ensemble. Vocalist Lauren Kinsella, known for her work with Kit Downes and Snowpoet, adds an ethereal quality to their music with her captivating voice. Guitarist and vocalist Arun Thavasothy, pianist Tom Taylor, bassist Tom McCredie, and drummer Dave Hamblett round out the group, each contributing to the intricate and dynamic soundscape that defines Seafarers.
Their debut album, “Orlando,” released shortly after their formation, garnered international acclaim for its innovative blend of genres and emotive storytelling. Three years later, they followed up with “II,” an album that delved into the bittersweet depths of teenage-dom, capturing the angst and beauty of youth with striking poignancy. Now, as they prepare to release their third album in October, Seafarers continues to push the boundaries of their musical expression, drawing listeners into their ever-evolving world of sound.
Seafarers’ most recent single, “Everything I’d Do (to Get a Hold on You),” which pays evocative homage to the classic Nashville country ballads of the 1980s, was released on July 12th, 2024. After their critically lauded May release, “Bedwetters,” this entrancing track is a tease for their much awaited third album. Set against the backdrop of a disastrous college relationship, the song is a journey through love, longing, and the unwavering search of an elusive heart. With their masterful musical creativity and emotional connection in “Everything I’d Do (to Get a Hold on You),” Seafarers has solidified their status as one of the most compelling artists in contemporary music. The song’s complex sound design and evocative narration make it an exquisite piece of work.
I knew I was about to go on a unique musical adventure when I heard the song “Everything I’d Do (to Get a Hold on You)” by Seafarers for the first time. Once I settled in to listen to the song, I was engrossed in its intricate melody and could feel every word and note strongly resonate with me. The song is a lovely homage to the 1980s Nashville country ballads, but it also has a modern chamber pop refinement that only Seafarers could pull off. I was totally enthralled from the very first soft kick of the drum till the very last dreamy note. The introduction to the song is nothing short of magical. As the gentle drum beat begins, I am immediately welcomed into a world of sonic beauty.
The delicate touch of the snare drum adds a subtle yet profound depth, setting the stage for what is to come. Then, as the piano’s soft and celestial sounds emerge, I find myself lost in its gracious and elegant aura. It’s a melody that feels both familiar and entirely new, drawing me in with its captivating charm. Lauren Kinsella’s voice enters the mix, and I am spellbound. Her vocals are not just exquisite; they are angelic. Her voice has an almost angelic, ethereal quality, but it’s rooted in a genuine, emotional vulnerability. Every note she sings seems to bring the song to life, giving it more nuance and significance. I can feel the emotions pouring out of her, turning the song into a living, breathing entity.
Together with the piano and the balanced drum beat, her voice creates a transcendent melody that is both calming and powerful. As the song progresses, it moves beautifully, infusing each element of the instrumentation with vitality and essence. At the 1:38 mark, something truly magical happens—the emergence of sharp guitar strings. This instrument adds an ethereal charm and quality to the song, gracing it with a divine aura. The rest of the instrumentation gains full essence, blooming in a way that feels almost organic. The drum beat, now more complex, maintains its cozy flow while the piano melodies continue to flourish.
Lauren’s vocals soar higher and higher, carrying the song to new emotional heights. I hear sensations of heavy-rooted bass sounds moving in and out at intervals, adding a thick texture to the song. The guitar mirrors this, creating a soundscape that is both rich and intricate. Each instrument complements the other, creating a harmonious blend that is truly mesmerizing. As the song approaches its end, it goes all out in terms of instrumentation. From the 4:08 mark, there is a reverie—a revelation of sound that is nothing short of majestic. Every instrument that had been used before now comes back in with more intensity and vitality.
The soft melody becomes so powerful that I get goosebumps. The guitar strings are majestic, and the trumpet-like sounds elevate the song to an even higher plane of celestial elegance. This climax is a powerful and moving conclusion to a song that has been a magical odyssey from start to finish. The consistent outpour of a slow to midtempo progression is genius, and the progressively evolving soundscape is magnificent. The soft yet powerful feel and flow cap it all up, creating an experience that is both astounding and deeply satisfying.
“Everything I’d Do (to Get a Hold on You)” is a song for the ages. Its exquisite beauty and profound emotional depth perfectly convey the essence of heartbreak and longing. It’s a song that really connects with listeners, engrossing them in its world and allowing them to experience every word and note. Seafarers have outdone themselves with this single, creating a masterpiece that will leave a lasting impression. I am eagerly awaiting their third album, as this song promises that it will be nothing short of extraordinary.
For more information about Seafarers, click on the icons below.
