There’s something so irresistible about a musician who is willing to take risks, make big changes and go headlong into their dreams. That’s the case with British artist Carley Varley who has spent past years indulging her love of heavy rock and metal music, but at the same time harbouring a passion for pop. She links this listening habit to some of her favourite bands like Linkin Park, Paramore and Evanescence. At the end of last year, she made the defining decision to unite her two sonic loves. Like a butterfly emerging from its cocoon, Varley has finally found her truest sound.
‘Somehow I’m Alive’ is the artist’s second foray into this pop-rock adventure and it sure is one for thrill-seekers out there. After a serene 50-second introduction of smooth pop melodies and a minimalistic backdrop, the track takes a sudden turn into energetic rock territory with searing guitars and crashing percussion. This dichotic balance that Varley creates her is not only so satisfying (who doesn’t love a rock-out sesh in their pop?), but it also conveys the ebb and flow of one’s emotions. Particularly, ‘Somehow I’m Alive’ deals with the musician’s experience of anxiety; the frustration is echoed through the bold instrumentation, her bittersweet nostalgia in those 2000s-esque vocals, the feeling of being overwhelmed in the complex production. Equally, this track isn’t melancholic as one might expect, it’s such a cathartic listen that will make you want to let those feelings out and even attempt joining Varley in her impressive delivery of those relatable, heartfelt lyrics.
This single, as well as 2022 release ‘Better Without Me’, will feature on Carley Varley‘s upcoming Homesick EP. If you happen to be in Hampshire or Dorset (UK), look out for some new gigs as well.
You can also listen to ‘Somehow I’m Alive’ in our Indie Rockers playlist.
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