UK-based singer-songwriter S J Denney has walked a unique musical path, drawing from a mix of influences that shape his original sound. Starting his musical journey as a choir boy and mastering the clarinet, Denney’s horizons broadened with the discovery of rock music, finding profound inspiration in iconic albums like The Beatles’ White Album and Neil Young’s Harvest, while his musical evolution further blossomed under the influence of Led Zeppelin, Talk Talk, Paul Weller and Jeff Buckley.
His background in music theory and self-taught ability on the guitar has allowed his skills as a versatile songwriter to flourish. His career has seen him perform in various bands, duos and as a solo artist, gigging extensively throughout the UK and Ireland.
Capturing his sound in the studio, he made his entrance in 2015 with his debut EP, Night & Day, which he’s since followed up with multiple singles, EPs and records to form an impressive catalogue of music over the years. Now he brings us his latest release with his brand new single titled “Friends and Lovers,” a song that sees the artist explore the Afrobeat genre for the first time.
This venture into Afrobeat is the perfect demonstration of the artist’s eagerness to experiment and build on his diverse discography. “Friends and Lovers” presents an intriguing fusion of Denney’s folk rock background with the rhythmic and playful elements of Afrobeat.
Born from a French chant idea, with “Friends and Lovers,” S J Denney crafts a mellow groove that features several percussive layers, bright guitar chords and soulful vocal leads lifted by lush backing voices. Opened by the repeated vocal chants as the patter of drums builds up, the song gently flows with laid back rhythms as S J spins smooth melodies above, resulting in a catchy and highly original sound.
Developing with vibrant instrumental flourishes of vibraphone, keys, woodwind and intricate plucked tones, “Friends and Lovers” offers a colourful jam that sees S J Denney frame his charming songwriting talent in a completely new light.
Listen to Friends and Lovers below
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