Laurel, also known as Laurel Arnell-Cullen, originates from Southampton, England, establishing herself as a notable figure in the indie music scene. Despite her humble beginnings, she has made significant waves in the industry, crafting her distinctive sound from the comfort of her own bedroom studio in London. Laurel, the UK-born pop sensation is back once again with her latest offering, “45 Degrees“, that delves into the complexities of love, painting a vivid portrait of the heady rush and bittersweet longing that accompanies a newfound romance. With evocative imagery woven throughout the lyrics, Laurel masterfully captures the essence of infatuation and desire. Lines like “Kissing in cars on the coast” and “Red wine in the chateau” transport listeners to idyllic scenes of passion and intimacy, inviting them to immerse themselves in the song’s narrative. This track, a tantalizing preview of her forthcoming album “Palpitations“, due to drop on June 14th, is a vibrant celebration of the summer spirit.
As the track unfolds, Laurel’s choice of words maintains a serene yet poignant tone, perfectly encapsulating the fleeting nature of summer love. The repetition of “Chase you like a summer breeze” serves as a poignant reminder of the transience of romance, echoing the ebb and flow of seasonal warmth.
Musically, “45 Degrees” exudes a sense of laid-back groove, with the drums setting the pace with a summery mid-tempo beat. The occasional pause for a brief clap section injects bursts of energy, enhancing the song’s danceability and infectious charm. This track is a testament to Laurel’s ability to craft vibrant pop compositions that resonate with listeners on a visceral level.
However, it’s Laurel’s vocals that truly steal the show. Her unique tone captivates from the first note, commanding attention and drawing listeners into her emotive delivery. Backed by exquisite harmonies and layered vocals, her performance elevates “45 Degrees” to new heights of sonic richness and emotional depth.
But the allure of “45 Degrees” doesn’t end with its musical and lyrical prowess. The track’s conclusion is punctuated by a tantalizing sound effect, hinting at hidden depths and leaving listeners eager for more. It’s a fitting finale to a song that effortlessly captures the essence of summer love.
“45 Degrees” is more than just a song; it’s an ode to the rising temperatures, a symphony of soft tones and alluring melodies that beckon you to immerse yourself in its passionate embrace. Laurel herself describes it as a journey into the depths of love, where emotions run deep yet life feels lighthearted, heady, and euphoric. It’s a sentiment beautifully captured in the music video, a collaboration with Elliott Arndt, which opens with scenes of a luxurious West Coast beach, evoking a yearning for the carefree days of summer.
But beyond the infectious beats and dreamy vocals lies a profound message about the transformative power of love. As Laurel herself explains, “They are the cure, yet they are also the sickness”. It’s a dichotomy that resonates deeply, reminding us that love, like summer’s heat, can both invigorate and overwhelm.
As for Laurel herself, she’s a force to be reckoned with in the music industry. Bursting onto the scene with her debut EP, “To the Hills“, in 2014, Laurel captured the attention of listeners with her emotive storytelling and captivating melodies. This initial offering, alongside her impressive discography, has garnered widespread acclaim, resonating with a vast audience. To put her influence into perspective, Laurel boasts an impressive following of 54,400 subscribers on YouTube and a staggering 780,711 monthly listeners on Spotify. Beyond her vocal prowess, Laurel is a multi-talented instrumentalist, proficient in guitar, piano, synthesizer, bass, and drums, further showcasing her versatility as an artist. Her single “San Francisco” notably earned her Apple Music’s esteemed “Artist of the Week” award, solidifying her position as a rising star in the music world.
Fans of Laurel will be thrilled to hear that she’ll be gracing stages across the UK this autumn, with tour dates in Glasgow, Manchester, and London. From the intimate setting of Glasgow’s G2 to the iconic KOKO in London, these performances promise to be unforgettable experiences, showcasing Laurel’s magnetic stage presence and undeniable talent. The dates are as follows…
- October 20: Glasgow, G2
- October 21: Manchester, Academy 3
- October 22: London, KOKO
“45 Degrees” is available now, serving as the perfect introduction to Laurel’s breezy pop sound that’s sure to dominate the airwaves. So grab your sunglasses, turn up the volume, and let Laurel whisk you away on a musical journey that’s as refreshing as a cool breeze on a summer’s day.
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