Single Review: Celeste

Though the album was released last year, it’s not uncommon for artists to retroactively release songs or submit to publications. The song of choice, interestingly, is the final song off the LP Let’s Go, simply entitled Celeste.

Songwriter and singer Amanda Sloan’s signature sound thus far appears to be very stripped-back, a no-frills style of recording. Beyond a single acoustic guitar, and two or three layers of chorused vocals, this is apparently all that’s needed to carry the piece, according to the world of Celeste Music.

In the verses, she lays out her rules and makes it clear that this is what she does, whether you like it or not, and the attitude is admirable. “I’m allowed to say, do it, rule it, sing, dance. This is Celeste, it’s me.”

As every artist will tell you, one of the most important aspects of being a musician, if not the most important, are supporters and fans; this song is a ballad of appreciation. Amanda gives her thanks, suitably at the end of the album, seemingly in appreciation of listeners for tuning in to her work.

After a number of listens, one wonders if the song could have developed more depth by placing the vocals less in the foreground, layering guitars in support, and introducing a hook to bolster the wavering melody.

On the other hand, Amanda does state “I’m gonna crush it, I’m allowin’ it, it’s totally me,” so there’s every chance she’s onto something we’re not. That’s bold, and it’s nothing short of enviable.