The new single from Memphis-based artist Lina Beach and LA’s Louise Goffin, ‘Bigger Than Me' is a testament to their genre-mixing capabilities, entering with a twangy guitar and escalating into full-blown early classic rock with a touch of soul.

Their education and the years of experience shared between the two seem obvious in the production of this song. With Beach being a valued member of The Hi Rhythm Section, and Goffin's lengthy catalogue of songs, this experience really shines through the layers sonically. With a keen ear for the mixture of vocals, neither one dominates, but instead they stand together harmoniously. This can also be heard in the composition of the instrumental, blending genres together and utilising the perfect sound at the perfect time. Most especially with their use of brass in the chorus. 

The initial impression of the song begins with a deeper sound. This pairs perfectly with the messaging of the song, following the more contemplative and difficult discussions where self-doubt is planted, such as “I’m fine / Don’t need to talk it through” and “Sometimes I stand in my own way / If you try it's a better day”. It maintains a deeper blues and rock resonance that emphasises and echoes this feeling of uncertainty.

Progressing further into the song, sonically the tone becomes brighter, transitioning into a pop-based blues sound. The song lightens into a sense of freedom as self-revelation ushers in. Understanding that ultimately your life is in your control, and drawing in those more pop sounds. Evoking pure joy in their lyrics: “I wanna be bigger than me / Reach up to the sky, looking over the treetops / I wonder how high I can fly / If my body lets go of my soul”.

What seems to have started as a small project with friends, as shared on Beach's Instagram, has burst at the seams and become a distinct high point for the dual-vocals repertoire. With Beach developing their first album, this sets a high standard and draws much anticipation for their next big release. 

Kelsey Catherine Walker 

@kelseycatherinewalker

Image: ‘Bigger Than Me’ Official Single Cover

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