Tonneau represents more than just a title; it embodies a collective effort, a shared musical vision steered by singer-songwriter Ton van Dijk. Stemming from the traditions of folk, indie-pop, and even psalms, Tonneau’s music delves into the nuances of love, family, work, and the essence of life itself. Central to this project is the aim of transcending mere melody creation; it seeks to capture something more profound than the song itself; hidden feelings, overlooked memories, and deeper desires.
For Ton, music functions as a pathway to awakening, serving as a route toward tranquility and spiritual connection. However, this journey is often complicated. The crafting of authentic songs demands focus and equilibrium, and the very life experiences that fuel his creativity can quite often hinder it. It remains a continuing journey, made smoother through collaborative efforts. The contributions of skilled musicians like Jan van der Hoeven (bass, vocals) and Alies van der Hoeven (violin) have enabled Tonneau to shape and hone its sound. The outcome is music that resonates with both personal and universal themes, appearing simple yet profoundly layered.
Released on March 1st, 2025, “Like Lovers Do” from Tonneau is a deeply moving and intimate piece that navigates the emotional intricacies of love, pride, and reconciliation. Crafted by Ton van Dijk along with the collaborative input of Jan van der Hoeven, Alies van der Hoeven, and René de Vries, the song exemplifies the fragile equilibrium between vulnerability and restraint. With roots in folk traditions and enhanced by modern nuances, “Like Lovers Do” unfolds with a subtle intensity, inviting listeners to engage with its raw and honest emotional tapestry. Recorded in Tonneau’s home studio in Amsterdam, the track mirrors the artist’s deeply personal experiences, transforming it from a mere song into a heartfelt revelation.
From the very first line, “You want me to open up every door”, the composition sets an introspective and emotionally charged tone. The lyrics hint at an internal struggle, a reluctance to fully embrace love despite a profound desire for connection. This conflict of yearning to be open while feeling restrained by pride is a recurring motif throughout the song. Ton’s delivery of these lines, characterized by a measured and almost hesitant rhythm, amplifies the emotions conveyed. There is no exaggeration, no artificial sentiment; rather, there exists an authenticity that imbues each word with a lived-in quality. The narrative style echoes that of folk legends such as Bob Dylan and Johnny Cash, renowned for their ability to turn personal trials into universally relatable stories.
Musically, “Like Lovers Do” flourishes in its unpretentiousness. The acoustic guitar, played by Ton, lays the groundwork for the track, its gentle strumming establishing a subtly charged emotional environment. Instead of depending on grand instrumentation, the song layers its depth through understated elements. Jan van der Hoeven’s bass contributes a quiet yet solid pulse, anchoring the song’s delicate feelings. The most captivating aspect, however, is the pizzicato violin, performed in a manner that resembles a textured bassline rather than the traditional bowed approach. This unusual choice imparts an eerie, almost fragile quality to the piece, echoing its themes of hesitation and emotional distance.
The inclusion of René de Vries on vibraphone and Alies van der Hoeven on violins enhances the song’s unique sound. The soft, bell-like sounds of the vibraphone offer warmth and a feeling of contemplation, complementing the more solid musical aspects. This instrument seamlessly integrates into the composition, adding a whimsical essence to the track’s melancholic atmosphere. The interaction among these elements; the grounded acoustic guitar, the subtle tension of the pizzicato violin, and the otherworldly resonance of the vibraphone, generates a sonic landscape that appears both intimate and expansive. The recording captures a sense of space, making the listener feel as though they are alongside the performers, absorbing every nuance in the moment.
Ton van Dijk’s vocal performance is another notable aspect of “Like Lovers Do.” His voice radiates an authentic honesty that turns the song into something resembling a quiet revelation. His performance possesses a raw, organic quality that amplifies the genuineness of the emotions expressed. He doesn’t dictate the song’s significance to the audience; instead, he permits it to develop naturally, allowing each line to resonate. The limitation in his vocals reflects the song’s theme of love that is present but uncertain, feelings that are deeply experienced yet difficult to express. This subtle understanding ensures that the song’s emotional resonance remains long after it finishes.
The song “Like Lovers Do” expresses the nuanced struggles in relationships; the moments of pride that lead to distance, the wish to connect again, and the difficulty of expressing genuine feelings. Inspired by a conflict with his partner, Ton encapsulates that universal tension: the struggle to grasp what is correct while being held back by pride, the irritation of separation, and the muted desire to re-establish a connection. His earlier hesitation to compose love songs gives this track even more importance; it goes beyond typical romantic ballads to provide a sincere portrayal of his personal experiences. The song refrains from seeking simplistic resolutions; instead, it lingers in the unresolved tension between pain and reconciliation, which makes it so captivating.
The production of “Like Lovers Do” is intentionally raw and organic, steering clear of the overly polished sound that frequently diminishes the emotional depth of folk music. Recorded in Tonneau’s home studio, the track preserves a warmth and immediacy that contributes to its personal and genuine feel. In a time when music is often digitally refined, this song distinguishes itself by embracing its imperfections. The production choices echo the song’s themes, reinforcing the idea that love, much like music, isn’t about flawlessness but about connection.
“Like Lovers Do” serves as a poignant reminder that some of the most powerful songs are not those that loudly declare their feelings, but rather those that allow emotions to unfold gradually. Through its fragile instrumentation, sincere lyrics, and profoundly personal vocal performance, the song encapsulates the intricacies of love, the push and pull, the yearning and resistance, the unexpressed sentiments, and the quiet reconciliations. It does not aim to overwhelm the listener with grand gestures; instead, it invites them to immerse themselves in its emotions, to feel its subtle pain, and to discover their own interpretations within its lyrics. With this release, Tonneau has crafted not only an exquisite song but also a deeply affecting experience that resonates in the heart and mind long after the music has faded.
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Listen to “Like Lovers Do” by Tonneau and many more in our Folk / Americana / Country playlist.
