Music Existence Because of Music, We Exist
Shayne Cook is back with his latest single Miles Away. Following the success of his LP Epiphonetics released in 2020, Miles Away begins a new chapter in meticulous and precise rhythms which shape Shayne Cook’s signature sound. It is this methodical approach which makes the listener pay attention to the intricate metaphors placed within the song. The slow, deliberate pulse of the rhythms and the articulated fills gives this track a funky groove that carries out systematically across the listening space while delivering a dance-like response in his audience. From the deep metaphors surrounding Miles Away, I get the theme of resentment for being preached to. An absence of response to the noise surrounding us throughout our daily lives and a resolution to live our own lives. It is through this symbolism that Shayne Cook employs that other listeners can take so much more from these lyrics, yet this is what makes art personal, what we take from it. This is a testament to the songwriting form Shayne Cook employs as I get so much from his lyrics, even the simple ones. I would be remiss if I didn’t spend some time discussing the effective use of the harmonizing vocals throughout the chorus sections. As Shayne Cook delivers a baritone verse he shifts into an upper register, bordering on alto to articulate his chorus section while the bottom end gets filled in with the backup vocals. This is highly effective as the fullness of the track really comes out from that deliberate silent spacing incorporated in the melody.
Shayne Cook expertly assimilates silence within the rhythm of the main groove. It is the silence that opens up the mystique of the track and helps focus the listener on the lyrics. This is the highlight of this track as the silence is almost ominous within the main mix like there is something there looming in the background, imagery of being Miles Away. With each frequency blended together to fill the spectrum we have a haunted piece that would be so very effective on any Pop, Urban, Middle-Of-The-Road, or even Rock commercial radio format. As a lead-off single to a new Shayne Cook project, Miles Away sets the bar rather high. This is a highly competent, mature, and professional piece of music that challenges the listener while completely entertaining them. I would strive to see Miles Away in a live performance as the ambiance and feelings expressed would make for a dynamic experience. A very enjoyable song, and one that really builds anticipation for what’s to come from Shayne Cook.
–Lee Callaghan
