Larry Karpenko - The River
The River by Larry Karpenko is a serene exploration of self. It is a pop gospel track that comforts and soothes the soul. With a production that moves by the book so well, Karpenko has perfected his craft. A rerecording of his 1998 song, the original is entirely acoustic, while the new version brings a full sound with its orchestration. Reminiscent of 2000s pop gospel songs, I felt very nostalgic. Especially when it transitioned to sound like a Christmas song at the end with the tambourine rhythm. The key change halfway through was perfectly placed as the bridge began and led into the final, choral chorus. And the choir at the end was absolutely beautiful, the harmonies angelic and obviously my favourite part of the song. While the original, stripped with just the guitar, is like a lullaby, this version made me feel like I'm floating in the ocean. The start with the strings leading to the piano definitely makes the song more ethereal while still holding the grounding qualities of the guitar. The song feels like a caress, like a soothing touch, especially with its lyrics. Especially when the song begins with I have a place where I can run to and hide, From this world outside, where I don't pretend. And in that place I find security and peace that soothes my breaking heart and gives me hope in the end. The River is the place that he feels safest, and it is nowhere else but inside him. Larry Karpenko reassures and uplifts himself and, in turn, provides us solace through this track.
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