Single Review: Isolation

Just by reading the title you’d be forgiven for thinking this is “just another song about being in lockdown”. Before you dismiss this outright, you’d be relieved to know the songwriter actually composed this years before Covid-19, and in his own words, it’s about “running away from being locked inside your head and turning away from the person you once were”.

Channeled is the solo project and musical outlet of Ben Ruegg. Having found a physical and mental need to express himself through making music, he began creating and recording. Aptly named Channeled, Ben has already put together a whole album, and now moving on to another. As this song finally reached fruition, Muzic.net.nz’s Steve S. was beyond thrilled in checking out this new teaser for the upcoming full-length record.

A juicy, menacing guitar riff kicks things off with force, one that would typically be played in a power-stance. Drums are introduced by way of hi-hats then bass pedals, then full-breadth guitar chords sweep in like a storm.

Thematically, the song paints a picture of anxiety and paranoia, and even embodies escapism in more ways than one. Not only would this song make a great accompaniment to a speedy night drive, even the lyrics evoke an adventurous attitude. Right before the chorus, the vocal line of “I think it’s time to run” essentially calls one to action.

The chorus itself is powerfully melodic, swapping out the palm-muted guitar chords for wide strums, and the energy amplified tenfold with secondary vocals harmonised tastefully. The vocals appear to have taken a leaf or two out of Shihad’s book, skipping playfully between clean, drawn-out notes to punk-like snarls, in that way Jon Toogood did in the 2000’s.

Ben’s strength in songwriting for a rock genre really shows. Hooks are laid down in all the right spots, energy is cranked to maximum for choruses, and when it’s time to let the music speak, vocals take a backseat, and the musical ambience envelopes, as it does during verses.

Not only was this written and performed by Ben, it was also recorded and produced by himself. The quality is top-notch, both in an aural sense, and in the execution of the song. This is a superb piece of Kiwi rock. Shihad and I Am Giant fans who have been looking for something to head bang to must add this to their playlists. It wouldn’t take much of a stretch of one’s imagination seeing this live on stage, albeit with a full band, as this song would be an incredibly fun little number to move to.

Isolation is the second of three singles to be released in promoting the upcoming album by Channeled, so be sure to stay up to date via his Facebook and Spotify pages!