I’ve been revisiting a lot of artists and bands that I’ve previously featured on this blog, as so many of them are putting out new music and wanting my thoughts on it. The latest is by Somehow, the indie-pop project of Erwan Pépiot, a singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist from Paris, France. His pleasing sound hovers somewhere between Joy Division and Belle & Sebastian, with a vocal styling reminiscent of Morrissey or Ian Curtis. He writes, performs, records, produces and mixes all his music in his own home studio, with his only assistance coming from his long-time collaborator Aurélie Tremblay, who provides backing vocals and some fine cello work.

Somehow released his debut album The Desert of Wasted Time in 2016, receiving many positive reviews. This was followed a year later by his beautiful album Hidden Memories, released via Toolong Records, which also earned wide acclaim both in Europe and the U.S. In October 2017 I reviewed “Someday”, one of the wonderful tracks from that album. He now returns with a terrific new song, “Shut Your Eyes and See” the first single from his forthcoming album Low Tide, due for release this coming October.

It’s another enchanting track, featuring Somehow’s signature rich, multi-instrumental stew that gives his songs their incredibly sublime soundscapes. A beautifully-strummed bass line provides a splendid foundation for the song, over which are layered some lovely guitar, keyboards, melodica, cello and gentle percussion. Erwan’s vibrant vocals are as pleasing as his music, singing the verses with a comforting urgency while Aurélie provides delightful backing harmonies.

The lyrics seem somewhat ambiguous, but I think they’re about someone who’s breaking out from under self-doubt that’s plagued them, allowing them to live their life to its full potential, yet still remaining insecure.

It seems you’re getting somewhere after all
You finally found your way out
Through your silent eyes
All things looked hollow
Now candles and stars
Sparkle in daylight

It seems you’re getting somewhere after all
You finally found your way out
At the sound of the horn
You’ll run away then die
Over and over
For a thousand times

You will speak
You will fly
You will speed up the tide
You’ll be lauded and praised by hundreds of strangers

Hide from yourself
Shut your eyes and see

The charming video shows a young man, skateboard in tow, flying to London to see a young woman who’s an old friend or girlfriend. They then set off on a sightseeing adventure, taking in both the beautiful and not-so-beautiful kaleidoscope of life in the teeming city on the Thames. The video was produced by Julien Bengel, and stars Paco and Marina as the young couple.

Connect with Somehow:  Facebook / Twitter
Stream his music:  Spotify / Soundcloud
Purchase on Bandcamp / Google Play