How can a brand new single sound so familiar? All writers crave to discover their own voice in their writing. Wilf Self is renowned for his polysyllabic prose and Raymond Carver is known for his economic and minimalist approach. From the moment the chord progression of Hello Beautiful rolls into the song, the easily identifiable sound of Dodgy, is as recognisable as the smell of a pulled cracker during the festival of Christmas…
As we know, Nigel Clark’s voice has floated across many a festival field. Moreover, his voice has matured through experience and the reassuring quality of his vox hints at a therapist’s delivery – all the more fitting. The lyrics reflect this truth…
“Stop blaming yourself”
In truth, Hello Beautiful is a call to protect the self. In an increasing divisive society, some are content to adopt the role of enthusiastic linespersons waving flags for increasingly confusing reasons. Where mental health care is over-stretched or non-existent the central message of Hello Beautiful is one of well-being. One chance conversation with a psychiatrist taught me that self-imposed shame and guilt are crippling and in most cases, simply unjustified.
“Never been your fault”
Despite, or because of, the all-important message, the single is an Indian summer anthem. The sentiments and musicality are both positive and self-assured. At 3:13 the horn section is a muted euphoric expression that will, no doubt, see groves of arms lifted in salutation at gigs during their current tour.
“Whatever you need to do to stop hating yourself…” is worthy of consideration I am sure we all agree? So take solace from this musical advice and when your self-imposed retrospection finds you staring into the mirror, you know what to say and there is nothing Dodgy about that statement! Moreover, familiarity does not have to breed contempt.
By: Swilgate Scuttler
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