The Buttercups by Ava Valianti is an artistically effective work on the disquieting reality of young love, rich in details of a tidal wave which engulfs the listener into its maw. The song reflects the emotional experiences which are very intense and produce a sensation of exaltation and helplessness.
Valianti is only 15, but her emotional maturity is shocking and yet, is very real. The sound of her voice has the burden of the person who experienced the silent devastation of heartbreak, but also has the otherworldly sound that addresses the perseverance of hope. The first couple of minutes lure you into a personal confession with her light voice floating on top of gentle piano and acoustic guitar as morning mist on the surface of calm water.
The fact that Buttercups has a musical progression that is astonishing is not the only reason why it is an astonishing song, the fact that its musical progression is in direct parody with the emotional progression is truly breathtaking. The manner in which the sparkling electric guitars slowly trace their way through the composition reminds one of a person gaining strength, step by step, memory by memory.
Valianti is gifted in that she is able to see beauty within contradiction. The song is a commentary on the dual nature of love with a surprising depth of detail in considering the sweetness of fond memories and the bitter taste of betrayal. Her falsetto in the chorus does not only demonstrate the vocal range but acts as a vessel of pure emotion that cuts through all pretense.
The visuals she conjures up- the sensory images which hold transient emotions to concrete scenes- produces a near cinematic effect that leaves the listener feeling like a witness as opposed to just an observer. It is the most vulnerable, and the most powerful storytelling. It is not only an exceptional thing that such a young artist has done but it is an exceptional song in itself. Valianti has come up with something that will connect with people well beyond her age, a touching masterpiece that makes one realize why music is a reason to fall in love with in the first place.
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