Get Realistically Hopeful With UnderwaterSun’s New Single ‘Tears for Souvenirs’

 

After introducing himself to his local music scene in May earlier this year, Harry Sampson (stage name ‘UnderwaterSun’) has made it clear that his vibrancy is here to stay with a second bedroom-pop masterpiece, ‘Tears for Souvenirs’.

The track is a hopeful yet realistic take on the various challenges we may encounter in our lives. Unlike so many other tracks that talk about mental health, ‘Tears for Souvenirs’ doesn’t come across as patronising or cliche, but as if it’s there to offer genuine support and perspective: “this life is like the ocean / it’s unpredictable at times”.

A feeling of intimacy is instantly created by the static vinyl sound, giving the impression that Harry is in the same room as you, offering some genuine advice and a shoulder to cry on. Similarly, the subdued contemplative acoustic guitar and sweet vocal tones add to this feeling of safety and provide a tranquil backdrop for the lyrics to fall onto.

As the song progresses, it becomes apparent that the song is not just about offering a friendly ear, but about not allowing our personal battles get the better of us, “when your demons come / dont show your fears / just save all those tears for souvenirs”. 

UnderwaterSun really is the most appropriate stage name for the creator of this track; the instrumentation has the potential to exude beachy summer vibes, with tambourines chiming in, smooth and clean guitar hooks, and gentle synths to offer textural support. However, as these components are played at a slower, more relaxed tempo, we are taken out of this tropical atmosphere and instead sonically placed into a cozy autumn day, one where the sun is bright but there’s a brisk breeze.

Put simply, the track is a genuinely lovely take on how to manage challenging emotions and situations. It’s easy to find yourself immersed in the comforting soundscape and poetic lyricism, and only makes you want to revisit the track again and again.

Rachel Feehan

@rachiefee @rachel_feehan

Image: Underwatersun LOGO