SINGLE REVIEW: LILY DANGER - MONEY / My friend the furry / I wonder
LILY DANGER’s debut album "The trials and tribulations of a north east railway" is a sprawling, 31-track exploration of the artist's innermost thoughts and experiences. Although we’ve been given three focus tracks—‘MONEY,’ ‘My friend the furry,’ and ‘I wonder’—each song offers a distinct perspective, showcasing Lily’s ability to capture complex emotions with simple, yet powerful acoustic arrangements.
‘MONEY’ is the first of the three tracks, and it immediately sets the tone with its stripped-back sound. Featuring nothing more than simple acoustic guitar and Lily’s raw, distinctive vocals, the song makes a bold statement. It’s a poignant social commentary, reflecting on the draining cycle of working for corporations that, in the end, remain faceless. The song’s biting lyrics take aim at the pressure of a system that values productivity over well-being, and Lily’s voice, with its unmistakeable twang, brings a deep sense of authenticity to the track. There’s an undeniable beauty in its uncomplicated nature, capturing the frustration of modern life with a raw intensity that pulls no punches.
In contrast, ‘My friend the furry’ brings a shift in both tone and energy. The uptempo, acoustic-driven rhythm gives the track a more lively, impassioned feel. It’s a song that delves into mental health struggles, specifically focusing on a friend who found comfort in the often misunderstood subculture of furries. The song’s theme of acceptance and reassurance shines through as Lily expresses her support, offering a loving reminder that her friend is accepted no matter what path they choose. There’s an air of warmth and freedom in the track—an empowering message that invites listeners to embrace their individuality without shame. Lily’s unique vocals take centre stage once again, but this time with an added sense of joy and compassion, making for a feel-good, inclusive anthem.
‘I wonder’ closes the set of three tracks, bringing a more reflective and mellow mood. With its melodic guitar work and Lily’s heartfelt, intimate delivery, the song evokes a sense of nostalgia and contemplation. The track touches on themes of loss, both personal and universal, with lyrics that reflect on the passing of friends and the bittersweet nature of time. The gentle warmth in the music complements the poignant lyrics, creating a balance between sadness and hope. Lily’s authenticity once again shines through, making this track another testament to her ability to craft deeply emotive music that resonates with listeners.
Through these three songs, LILY DANGER demonstrates her ability to craft captivating, emotional music with just her voice and an acoustic guitar. Her sound blends elements of indie and Americana, with an honesty that makes her lyrics feel personal yet universal. Although "The trials and tribulations of a north east railway" promises to be a long and multifaceted journey, these three tracks offer a taste of the raw, emotive power that Lily brings to her music.
