In February, Nottingham locals 2079 stepped forth with a brand-new offering. Alice Beard reviews…
The latest track from 2079, Sky Blue Happiness, captures an exciting sonic landscape. From my first listen I was hit by a stream of boundless influences. The guitar brings echoes of everything from Alice In Chains to Pavement and even elements of Guided By Voices. There is a clear grungy reminiscence in this offering, an abrasive essence of the 90s running through strong. As the track opens up there is an undeniably brooding quality to the music, but there is something light and breezy which whispers beneath. Adam Malpass’ vocal rawness soon helps to cut through the mellow, assisting in diverting the drifting sensation of something bittersweet to a new direction. Sam Cunningham’s drums assert themselves as the heart of this piece, shifting it into sudden optimism exactly when it needs it. Every beat is hit with an intensity, this driving force pushing the track to new bounds. There is a constant fight between darkness and light taking place through the instrumentals, but Malpass’ pondering lyricism signifies faith and promise with remarkable conviction: ‘I watch the clouds go by, sky blue happiness in my mind’. As the song ascends to gleaming optimism by the close, we are hit with a beacon of hope through the hard times. This track is a tender and unfiltered exploration of ambition, forming a sturdy addition under the band’s belt. Why not give it a listen?
Alice Beard
Edited by Alice Beard
Official Sky Blue Happiness cover courtesy of 2079