Charles James & The Rise – The Elephants
In “The Elephants,” Charles James & The Rise deliver a deeply moving acoustic rock track that explores theme of loss and the quest for hope. Influenced by the sounds of early Americana and rooted in the landscapes of Donegal, Ireland, the song attracts listeners with its soft and atmospheric folk melodies, plus the soul-stirring lyrics. From the opening acoustic strums to the haunting vocals that follow, “The Elephants” sets a soft and sensitive tone. The soft, plaintive voice of the singer serves as a guide through the emotional landscape of the song, searching for a glimmer of light amidst the darkness of despair. The basic orchestration, devoid of electricity, adds to the raw and intimate atmosphere, allowing the lyrics to take center stage. Inspired by the loss of the singer’s father in late 2020, The Elephants “dives” into the depths of grief and hopelessness that accompany unexpected death. The lyrics reflect the protagonist’s struggle as the singer grapples with brokenness and the fear of dreaming in the face of loss. The metaphor of “black dogs barking louder” and “elephants” weighing heavy on the chest vividly captures the suffocating nature of grief, expressing a sense of paralysis and despair. Yet, amidst the darkness, there is a glimmer of resilience and determination to rise above the pain, even in the face of inevitable falls. “The Elephants” stands as a musical reminder of the complexities of life, the fragility of existence, and the enduring power of hope in the face of adversity.
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