Single Review: Savannah

REID is solo artist, based in Wellington, who is making straight-up fun and catchy pop music. Inspired by a desire to simply get people to sing and dance along, REID’s debut single, Savannah, is one of those songs that is the soundtrack to sunny days.

REID’s vocals are versatile and this track only hints at his skill. At times his tone suggests his range. He also brings an R&B sound and merges Spanish lyrics – he is ticking lots of mainstream boxes, and I think that will reflect the wide appeal of his music.

Lyrically, it’s a song about looking forward to those happy moments when we are full of hope and longing. It’s an invitation to relax and engage. That REID wrote this during lockdown is perhaps telling of his abilities and discipline. It seems to offer new beginnings, out the other side of the difficult and challenging times for musicians, of these past two or so years. I think listeners will feel this too.

As a self-penned track, this release brings promise for emerging acts in New Zealand and also I think will reach an appreciative audience. With similar young artists like BENEE finding international success, I think there is plenty of desire for singer-songwriters like REID. I look forward to hearing more.