Credit: Anastasia Jobson, Anastasia Jobson Photography
Brandes is an emerging singer-songwriter based in Telford, England, known for blending poetic lyricism with rich musical influences. His work carries the spirit of artists like Leonard Cohen, Joni Mitchell, and Sandy Denny, with nods to the introspective folk of Nick Drake. Although still at the beginning of his career, Brandes’ music reflects the deep thoughtfulness of an artist with a unique perspective on life and society. His debut album, ‘The Distance Between Dreams’, set for release in early 2025, explores a variety of themes through both folk sensibilities and indie rock aesthetics, offering listeners an eclectic and compelling soundscape.
Released on October 18th, 2024, “From The Higher Ground” is the third single from Brandes’ debut album ‘The Distance Between Dreams’, which is slated for release in early 2025. The track departs from the folk-centric, introspective nature of his previous singles, embracing a more indie rock sound with a hard-edged, politically charged narrative. While his earlier releases were personal meditations on relationships, this song is a commentary on societal decay and the complicated dynamics shaping the world today. It positions Brandes as an artist unafraid to shift musical gears and tackle weighty themes beyond individual experience.
The song begins with a captivating introduction, where gentle guitar chords weave through a soft ambient rhythm, setting an introspective mood. The minimalist nature of the opening invites listeners into a reflective space, drawing them closer to the heart of the song. What makes this introduction remarkable is the subtle tension that lingers beneath the calm—hinting that the track will evolve beyond the quiet simplicity of its initial moments. This musical patience shows Brandes’ maturity as a songwriter, crafting a soundscape that evolves naturally rather than relying on sudden, dramatic shifts.
Brandes’ vocal delivery plays a crucial role in the uniqueness of this track. Instead of adopting a conventional singing style, he employs a spoken-word approach that hovers between singing and reciting, giving the song an almost confessional quality. The deliberate pacing of his voice creates space for the listener to absorb the weight of his words fully. This stylistic choice emphasizes the importance of the lyrics, making every phrase feel meaningful and intentional. Brandes does not strain his voice, yet the emotional depth is palpable, demonstrating the power of restraint in his artistry.
At the 50-seconds mark, the song introduces a subtle yet effective shift. A richer beat joins the composition, enhancing the rhythm without overpowering the delicate balance established earlier. This understated addition elevates the energy just enough to propel the narrative forward, making the transition feel organic. The instrumentation throughout remains minimal but purposeful, ensuring the focus stays on the lyrics and Brandes’ vocal delivery. This musical approach reinforces the song’s message—sometimes simplicity carries the greatest impact.
Lyrically, “From The Higher Ground” offers a sharp critique of societal issues, painting vivid images of people struggling with modern challenges. One line speaks of a man covered in tattoos, unaware of their meanings—a metaphor for a generation burdened by symbolic and trends they don’t fully understand. Another verse touches on the plight of a mother forced into compromising situations to provide for her daughter, a heartbreaking reflection of economic desperation. Through these narratives, Brandes reveals the complexities of the human experience, balancing empathy with stark realism.
The arrangement of the song Is another highlight—simple, yet remarkably effective. There’s no excess in the instrumentation; each element serves a distinct purpose, contributing to the song’s driving feel without overwhelming it. The beat introduced midway through the track offers just enough energy to maintain engagement without shifting the focus away from the lyrics. This well-considered arrangement reflects Brandes’ careful craftsmanship, showing that he understands the power of subtlety in music.
Ultimately, “From The Higher Ground” is a testament to Brandes’ versatility as an artist. It demonstrates his ability to step beyond the folk-inspired, personal themes of his earlier singles and venture into a more expansive musical and lyrical territory. This track, with its blend of thoughtful storytelling, understated instrumentation, and compelling vocal delivery, serves as a bold preview of what’s to come on ‘The Distance Between Dreams’, Listeners who enjoyed his acoustic work will find something new to appreciate in this indie rock experiment, while newcomers will be drawn in by the song’s striking balance of simplicity and depth. With its release, Brandes solidifies his place as an artist to watch—one capable of evolving without losing the essence of his artistry.
For more information about Brandes, click on the icons below.
