Plain Mister Smith – Dream to be free
This track comes from an indie scene veteran who has previously worked with Moev and Cinderpop, and his experience is obvious. Dream to Be Free was inspired by a trip to Kyoto, and it begins with an aura of movement and meditation. The song starts with a warm indie rock basis, backed by pop-leaning melodies and groovy, almost dance-oriented percussion that feels friendly and trippy from the moment it begins. As the vocals start out, a sophisticated Britpop influence shows up, presented with elegance and discipline instead of nostalgia. The vocal performance shows peaceful faith, integrating into the song’s easy-listening flow. The melodies remain front and central, guiding the listener through the song without becoming distracting, while the rhythm is light and softly uplifting. Overall, the track evolves into a more dreamy and slightly psychedelic sound. Elements of 1960s exotica combine with ambient sounds, assisted by the audio mix and mastering, which prioritise atmosphere and softness over sharpness. The final outcome is a song that’s catchy and relaxing, simple to listen to, and spiritually enjoyable, an easygoing but excellent work that reveals both experienced songwriting and an authentic sense of desire to travel.
