Single Review: When Gods Lie

Reb Fountain’s urgent vocals and the deep harmony of the piano weave together like silver threads; her rhythmic lyrical changes play out like an intricate dance over the subtle backing. When Gods Lie is Reb Fountain’s latest release and first single from her upcoming self-titled album. The single is set to be available on Friday the 13th of March to coincide with her appearance at WOMAD festival.

When Gods Lie is a tender and heartfelt articulation of the feeling of being let down by something or someone. Having to square with oneself an intimate kind of betrayal or shift in perspective. Something turning out not to be the way we initially felt it or indeed wanted it to be.

This is a universal feeling brilliantly captured in the music and lyrics of When Gods Lie. The title itself is a perfect expression of the bitter taint of corrupted divinity. It brings to mind the self-reflection that there are parts within us all that are ugly and badly motivated, despite our clawing protestations that we are virtuous. There is a certain freedom that comes when recognising and coming to rest in the grey areas and doing away with the mythology that cloaks the truth.

Reb herself says about the song:

“…Perhaps most importantly one can deceive oneself and it is this awareness that the stories we tell ourselves shape our experiences – that empowers us. Once we have witnessed and felt ‘when gods lie’ …and chosen to see our part in the great fall – we are set free.”

It is wonderful to hear a song with such a coherent communication of a feeling. It is really this connection with the listener that music and artistry is all about. An articulation of something that rings true, When Gods Lie uses all its faculties to convey this message. The music is beautifully composed and works in perfect tandem with the thought proving lyrics to provide a deep and personally impacting song.

The instrumentation is fantastically understated, really giving room for the vocals to lift off and drive the piece from one section to the next. There are several melodic passages throughout that are sublimely beautiful. Including a short but sweet lead synth/organ solo. The layers of instruments in the track are almost visual in that the listener can hear everything in its place and the weight of each part is fully delivered.

The backing vocals have a big role in threading together the punchy singing in the choruses and the interplay between Finn Andrews’ and Reb’s voices keeps the sound fresh throughout.

If this single is anything to go by the upcoming album looks set to be an absolute must-have. Keep an eye out for its release on the 1st of May and for Reb’s tour dates over the winter. For fans of melodic music that packs an emotional punch Reb Fountain’s When Gods Lie is truly unbeatable. A brilliant slice of powerful singer-songwriter magic at its finest.