When reviewing the previous single, Suddenly, I used reference points as astute and largely overlooked as The Lilac Time and Microdisney to try to describe the deftness and accessibility of Chapell’s songwriting. They might be obscure touchstones, but for me, there was, and indeed is, little in the mainstream that would make the point so well. This time out, When The Music Plays Again evokes perhaps a slightly better-known name, such is the skill behind it.
For me, Crowded House and Neil Finn’s songwriting continue to mark a particular high point in the evolution of pop, or perhaps, given the flimsy nature of pop today, pop-rock songs. So, I don’t say this lightly when I say Chapell’s latest single reminds me of his musical hand.
It is ironic that the song is about those moments when, as a songwriter or musician, you seem to run out of ideas, out of love with the art form, or have nothing left to give. It alludes to those times when you just have to wait for the muse to descend once more, for the creative juices to flow again.
This delicate piano piece is slowly wrapped in additional tones and textures – swathes of guitar, unfussy but brilliantly functional beats, delicate sweeps of strings and Chapell’s warm and welcoming pop voice.
Thankfully, songs like this prove that Chapell still has plenty to give and, on the strength of the two singles I have encountered, is carving out a career that is visibly and demonstrably going from strength to strength. Long may it continue.
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