Lauv and Midnight in Paris

It's been a bit of a while, but back again with some new music for you! And today's track comes from an artist who has made quite a breakthrough this past year. The New York based singer-songwriter known as Lauv has been making waves out of the underground circuit, making his name and music known to a wider audience. I've talked about some of his music in the past, but I am particularly excited to talk about this song because of how different it is from the rest of the music we tend to hear from Lauv.

As the creator and producer of his own music, Lauv has brilliantly created a stylistic sound for himself, one that makes him a recognizable artist among the rest. His music is characterized by soothing sounds, a hint of seduction, and emotion. The way these motifs are portrayed in the music is always different, but somehow the compositions still have a signature style. This song is unlike pretty much every track Lauv has released though. Of course, we still get those stylistic elements which have grown into being Lauv's sound. But this track is the most unique and charming, making it one of my favorite songs.

For starters, this song has a lot more instrumentation. Instead of sounding like the song is made up truly of just synths and keyboards, we are introduced to a lot more instruments. But Lauv still keeps things simple and classic with this track. From the first moments of this song's opening, we are introduced to this cool lounge jazz. We are immediately transported to the streets of Paris where everything seems to exude this warmth and romantic calm. The dreamy start has us already feeling like we cannot stop smiling because we are that in love with someone. The deep thrum of the double bass gives the jazzy track a cozy warmth, as it is set to an ambient sound which is almost like rain falling. Even in the chorus, the upright bass seems to take the song in its intended direction. The subtle, high pitched bass lines carries into a firmer full bass line. This stylish shift brings an old school swagger to the track, something we would see from the likes of Louis Armstrong or Duke Ellington. You honestly cannot imagine being anywhere else but the streets of Paris.

Lauv's vocals are, of course, a beautiful and ambient expression of romance. The instrumentation takes on a jazzier cue, but Lauv takes on a more soulful one which creates a distinct and delightfully sweet sound. As Lauv starts singing, he is able to match that cool and smooth instrumental atmosphere and delivers a charismatic performance. His voice is definitely a softer one, but it is such an elegant and charming overlay to the chilled out jazz. Even his falsettos have a mildness and gentleness to them. Lauv's voice is often times accompanied by some finger clicks as well, which seems to make us feel like we are also participating in this song. It is true that the track is supposed to be about two people, but it is nice to feel like we can be one of those people. There is never a moment in this song where I feel like there is something missing. It is true that not every pocket of space is filled with sound. But that is what makes it so perfect! That idea of simplicity and providing us only that which is needed, has such a magic to it.

I think one of the things that makes Lauv really stand out to me as an artist, is his take on love. Lauv seems to focus on the complicated nature of love, the downs and the moments where you feel unsure. He likes to focus on the parts of love that come in between the phases of heartbreak and being head over heels. I respect that subject so much as a listener. The spectrum of love is so vast, and I love that he is taking on so many perspectives and views of love, tying them into beautiful masterpieces of music. A rather rare side of love for Lauv, this song explores the romanticism and sweet beliefs he holds. This song takes on a much more romantic flair, inspired by and older style of music. This song reminds me of the whimsical and modern fairy tale kind of love story. Lauv's inspiration for this track actually comes from the movie Midnight in Paris. For those of you who have seen the film, this song just feels right. For those of you who haven't imagine falling in love while walking through the sunbathed streets of Paris. Imagine sitting at one of the cafes on the street while a gentle rainfall covers the ground in a dewey glow. That sense of unknown happiness, the smile that plays at your lips for no reason. That is what this track makes you feel, and my is it a good feeling.

Since this track was inspired by a film, I thought it would be nice to listen to some of the music of that film. So today's instrumental song comes from the movie Midnight in Paris. Now this film is such a good one because it is such an honest one. It is one that I absolutely love as it takes us on quite a different love story spin. But the music is simply delightful and the soundtrack is bright and soothing. This composition is one that we hear a bit more often in the film, and I think it captures the essence of the film and the first song so clearly. I hope you enjoy the music and please feel free to comment!


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