The keyboard sound in Harry Kappen’s “Distant Shore” reminds me of a certain side of seventies rock. It’s the warm, slightly weird one that seems like it came from a long, long way away. The sound makes the whole song floaty. While listening, it seems as though the ground is slowly falling away from under your feet.
The thing that really impressed me is the restraint of the song. Harry Kappen never tries too hard to get a reaction in “Distant Shore”. Rather, the song takes its own tempo and allows the music to be heard. It’s a quiet confidence in that approach. The song is from a real place. It has a sense of distance, both physical and emotional, as if someone is looking back as they are heading towards an unknown future.
The sadness of “Distant Shore” is never explicitly stated. The production aids with that. It’s open and spacious, like the music was composed to allow the listener to ponder. There is no one to compete for attention. All instruments and sounds are in their proper place. That balance is not as easy to achieve as it might seem.
The music also has a lot of respect. Harry Kappen’s awareness of the hardships others face, and his humility about it. That feeling can be heard throughout the track. Never heavy handed or a lesson. It just remains there, creating a sense of continuity and meaning for the song.
The final section, “Distant Shore”, becomes more of a peaceable place. Meanwhile, it doesn’t fully alleviate the tension that’s always been present. That feels deliberate. Life doesn’t always end in a nice way either. I always go back to this song when I need some patience. It encourages listening attentively and wholeheartedly, which is increasingly difficult these days.
Stay connected with this amazing artist:
Discover our playlist :