Artist Proof – New Day (song review) |self-released, single, 2015| 
"New Day" is a single by Artist Proof, an indie rock band from Melbourne, Australia. Artist Proof consists of song writers Chris Pattenden and Drew Schapper, supported by Dan East (guitar) and Chris Rourke (bass). They are not your typical sound only-orientated musicians however, because they enjoy collaborating with (and are inspired by) other people who express themselves through art – just like teaming up with, for example, artists who paint murals while the band is performing in the same room.
"New Day" is also kept close to art since it was inspired by the paintings of Melbourne-based artist Dagmar Cyrulla. Her art captures random moments in the lives of ordinary people of all ages, genders and races.
The song begins with a delicate yet not too highly pitched piano, sufficient to let the emotions come out by opening the listener’s heart. It is then followed by a male voice, characteristic enough to remember it after the first listening. Interestingly, the voice sounds as if the singer was much older than his actual age would suggest (obviously it is not always a rule to 'sound' according to one's age).
Once the piano paints the song theme in the beginning, the bass and drums slightly change it in the latter part of the song. Gradually, a vibrating guitar tune and the aforementioned instruments join the singer. They sketch the rhythm, along with adding more sound layers, building it up towards the chorus. Upon reaching it, the initially sentimental song turns into a full-blown rock track, though it's still based on a rather slow tempo, letting a listener focus on the poematic vocals better.
The strong melody line in the song indicates that musicians have been inspired by the 70's & 80's music, with its characteristic traits present in songs by Freddie Mercury's Queen, Pink Floyd, David Bowie - but also Peter Murphy at times - due to their theatrical, ethereal and slightly dramatical expression. The arrangements were carefully chosen and sewn into the composition.
The song is good as is, but will also make for a good background when matched with an equally emotional video, preferably aimed at the younger part of the population. Still, since retro seems all the rage now, it wouldn't hurt to show older people who catch up with their younger selves, either. Is the song inspiring? That depends on your own blood pressure. If it's high, your body feels better hearing moody, melancholic, almost transparent tunes, and it'll thank you for playing "New Day". If only heavy or very dynamic music can get your body moving, you should rather choose a different song to accompany your morning coffee.
(Katarzyna 'NINa' Górnisiewicz, Fabryka Music Magazine, June 22nd, 2016. Proofreading: Mike 'Vesper' Dziewoński)
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