Live Review: PREMIERE: 'Dissolve' into the cry-dance with the new single from Soft Touch

When she's not making hard-hitting, propulsive and innovative techno under the moniker Rebel Yell, Grace Stevenson is channeling her life experiences into another music outlet by the name of Soft Touch. A step away from the abrasiveness of Rebel Yell, Soft Touch's name says it all. It maintains that same innovative and forward-thinking approach to music and creativity Stevenson applies to all she does, but it comes in the form of more lo-fi, DIY and tender moments. Having already released a catalogue under the name (and following on from the exceptional 2020 Rebel Yell album '), Stevenson is now readying herself to release a Soft Touch EP this year, and we are thrilled to bring you the first taste of it today.

Titled 'Dissolve', this single is the first release from the forthcoming 'a glimmer' EP, and is an immediately evocative, emotional song which packs more than a few cathartic punches. Perfect for cry-dancing to, it channels inspiration from Caroline Polachek, Blink 182 and Jonsi & Alex to create a fusion of emo and pop to completely let go to.

Released alongside some striking visuals which show Stevenson looking right down the camera as she cries and pleas for help and understanding in a time when she needed it most, 'Dissolve' takes aim at the mysteries and complexities of life, and the lessons we learn along the way. It's liberating in its fearlessness, with Stevenson allowing her vulnerability to shine through, and its in this that the song finds its power. We all feel lost, helpless, confused, abandoned and the desperate desire to be heard and understood every now and then, and this is a bold and personal attempt to distill that very experience. With her lyrics displayed as part of the visuals, the message of the release could not be clearer as Stevenson not only lets down her walls, but completely dismantles them in the hope that connection is on the other side. Thankfully, in releasing this, its exactly what we will all find.

'a glimmer' is set for release in early 2021, and will be available on a small run of hand painted USBs with lyric book zines, as well as digitally (which you can pre-order here and pre-save here). Watch 'Dissolve' below.

Words by Emma Jones

Image by Jordanne Chant

LISTEN TO NEW MUSIC HERE

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