ONR just released a new single, called “5 Years Time,” a song from his forthcoming EP. Hailing from Scotland, ONR surfaced out of nowhere, and still remains shrouded in mystery. His single “Jericho” leaked out through indie music label Leftwing and suddenly he was signing with Capitol Records. He’s already been featured in CLASH Magazine, Atwood Magazine and High Voltage.
ONR appeared on the main stage at Electric Fields, Loopallu and Tartan Heart, and is currently in the studio with producer Mark Crew, Doc McKinney and Spike Stent, working on his debut EP. Scheduled to perform in the UK during December, he will hit the U.S. next year, including SXSW.
ONR’s sound blends elements of alt rock, alt pop and nuances of gospel-like poetic lyricism into music of remarkable charm and urgent sonorous attributes.
“Five Years Time” opens with a delicately pulsating synth and ONR’s sinewy tenor. The melody merges alt rock and alt pop flavors riding synths glowing with energy that surge with bright textures as the music ascends. Propelled by a swelling contagious rhythm, the tune resonates with an opaque dynamism throbbing with seductive ambiance.
ONR’s voice oozes resolve and fervent passion. It’s a rich voice full of restrained splendor escaping and revealing intimate tones suffused with elegant textures commanding attention, along with tantalizing dark hues both proximate and engaging. Choir-like background vocal harmonies add an envelope of depth that strengthens the vivid feeling of ONR’s voice.
The lyrics to “Five Years Time” seethe with remarkable righteous exasperation over the present state of world politics. They pose a pertinent question: “Where will we go from here?” As ONR says, “Lyrically, this is one the darkest songs I have. I was really trying to promote two ideas: firstly, this idea of balancing your past with your present, and secondly, to set it against this current backdrop of dark politics and the increasingly common frustration and helplessness that this generation is feeling.”
“Five Years Time” is outstanding. Compelling synths drive the potently persuasive melody, while the evocative lyrics lay bare the dissatisfaction and vulnerability saturating the political milieu. “Five Years Time” is a powerful song, not only lyrically but melodically. And with it, ONR establishes his status as a musical force of unparalleled talent.
Download “Five Years Time” here.