The Vanities-Private Army
The Vanities have had quite a run in the music world, reflecting on the real. After a decade long self-imposed exile, they are back with a unique, fresh sound in 2021 with the album, 2001. Now, they choose a different tone for a different message-with the issues that plague us. This is their latest single to come out on 31/03/23, Private Army. The 80s pop rock sound with the synth heavy blankets leads to a different effect in tone. With Private Army, The Vanities shine a light on the war torn side of Europe, almost a year after it began. As expected, this song is a morose, melancholy undertone, with strings and isolated piano bringing the desired flavour within the song. The harmonies are haunting, initiating goosebumps that will remind you of the horrendous circumstances that some are going through. It reflects the pain, while leading the powerful song with amazing melodies. The vocals transpire all the sorrow and pain successfully, creating a heartfelt song that truly understands what the plight of people might be. A song like this would repeat for what it means to listeners, and people who are eyewitnesses, alike. The extended version showcases the dramatic outro with more strings, something that is really moving. The sorrow of war I associated this song with the critically acclaimed movie Syriana, which showcases the filthy politics in the context of war. This song, however, is not a snippet of entertainment to associate with a movie, but to depict to people who might have forgotten what is out of sight. Tragedy strikes some people every day, and The Vanities are reminding us to hold a candle for those who lay down their lives against warmongers. Follow them and be prepared for the official release on the 31st of this month! Check out the track here as well: https://thevanities.bandcamp.com/album/private-army
The Vanities-Just Passing Thru
The Vanities are touching on indie rock that can engage your frequency. As a band that is not afraid to tune into social issue and the so-called structures of society, they are back with a new single slated to release on 19th April 2024. This one features the brilliant sound of Bob Fitzgerald. It also shows the versatility of the band to make music in all vibrations of the spectrum. This one is called Just Passing Thru. Moving tones will guide you into the meandering, travelling mindset of The Vanities. You might know this band from their songs like Private Army and 2001. In this one, the Americana sound rings through, while resonating with the powerful lyrics. The slide guitar is something that might get you emotional, along with the vocal choir. Simple chord progressions will show you the simplicity of the mind of a vagrant labelled vagabond. In this case, however, you’re put in a pocket of empathy. It helps in understanding the choices he makes and the battles he has to face every day. The harmonies all coalesce to make you feel that very point, written with some deep appreciation for what the protagonist's mental state might be like. Like a Beatles song, it stays in your mind for a long time, with choice words that make you think about the music. Something only a band like The Vanities can do. You can check out their song on their Bandcamp, and follow them there for more music like this. You can also check their Spotify out, and keep a ear out for releases. The 2013 movie Tracks would be perfect for a song like this, the travel and the character matching the premise very well. Listen to the song here and follow the band for more like this!