Single Review: So Much

Taranaki-based artist, Renee Millner, brings substantial quality to her music – it’s effortlessly sung, lyrically modest and full of emotional impact, because of her unique and skillful talent. Her new single So Much was self-penned and produced by Sam Johnson. Accompanying the release is the video, directed by Hugo Eaton, which provides a thought-provoking narrative to the track.

In its opening chords, So Much sounds like a classic rock – it’s uplifting, catchy and yet bluesy, then the chorus kicks in and we are in the depth of heartwarming feel-good music. Millner’s vocals sound like sandpaper and fire all at once. It is an earthy and expressive sound. Yet, she has range that brings the full punch of emotions, set up by lyrics like ‘don’t listen to the ones who haven’t lived their dreams themselves’. There are lyrics that seem to touch on angst, self-doubt and belief. I’d love to hear a stripped back acoustic version.

The video follows Millner, a seemingly invisible witness to the trials and tribulations of a young man making his way through some difficult decisions. It evokes the idea of the wandering minstrel, ministering to the everyman, with their poetry. The video is beautiful, delicately lit scenes of comradeship and conversation are shared, mainly set under the boughs of trees, and it ends with a welcome return to arms of loved ones. Idealism maybe, but I am ok with that. I love this song.