Soaked in nostalgia for a far away place, the new single from Melbourne artist Tanya Batt – aka BATTS – is a lusious treat for the ears. Having previously toured with Sharon Van Etten in 2019, the pair have a unique bond, so BATTS felt Van Etten to be the perfect musical partner when writing ‘Blue’ in her mother-in-law’s home.
BATTS speaks of being drenched in grief while writing ‘Blue’, feeling her days heavily passing as she watched Antiques Roadshow on loop. In many ways, ‘Blue’ encapsulates both those feelings of reflection and sorrow with a stirring splendour: “I wish I could see the blue babe, but all I do is feel the blue”, BATTS sighs. It is with the weight of the world that she seems to muster up her strength to poignantly sing in a beautifully hushed disposition.
The vulnerability of ‘Blue’ is tangible while its resonant lyrics hang in the air, gently floating along as the folk-inspired track progresses. Warm, honey-like guitar tones coat the track with a vintage sparkle while minimal percussion pulls BATTS’ melodies along with just enough speed. With delicate instrumentation and captivatingly satisfying harmonies between BATTS and Sharon Van Etten, it sounds as if it could have been produced decades ago with its retro folk-strewn musical authenticity.
The vintage feel of ‘Blue’ paired with a euphoric build in the final chorus feels like a refreshing brush of wind coasting across your cheeks. BATTS and Sharon Van Etten have created a warm, comforting space that feels like returning to your childhood home.
Watch the stirring new video for ‘Blue’ now:
Jill Goyeau
@jillybxxn
Photo Credit: Lisa Businovski
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