SINGLE REVIEW: Yes Chris - Barnsley Market
'Barnsley Market' is a stirring journey through time, where Yes Chris takes a reflective pause to explore the memories of a West Yorkshire childhood. It’s a track brimming with nostalgia, delving into personal recollections while tapping into a universal yearning for simpler times. For me, the lyric about Hi-Tecs sparked a knowing smile—it’s a nod to a very specific slice of 90s life. Despite my own Norfolk upbringing, the sentiment resonates deeply, especially now that I call West Yorkshire home.
The narrative is striking, grappling with the push and pull of staying rooted while others chase dreams elsewhere. There’s a bittersweet acceptance in the idea of home—imperfect but meaningful enough to stay. It’s the kind of introspection that lingers, and I found myself returning to it repeatedly.
Sonically, 'Barnsley Market' is as layered as its themes. It opens with dreamy, haunting guitars that evoke a sense of detachment, as though hovering above it all in a hazy reverie. The raw, rugged vocals carry a dark, theatrical grunge edge, seamlessly blending grit with emotion and melody. Just as you settle into its atmospheric depths, the track takes an unexpected turn. The initially minimalist soundscape pivots to jangly, upbeat C86 guitars, bursting with brilliantly melodic energy.
This isn’t just a straightforward indie track—it’s an ever-shifting tapestry of styles. DIY sensibilities add authenticity, with moments of fuzzy grunge slipping into noisy, chaotic rock, injecting intrigue and texture. A standout drum solo, perfectly timed, further amps up the excitement, pulling the listener deeper into the track’s world.
Yes Chris has crafted something special with 'Barnsley Market'—a song that’s both intensely personal and wonderfully universal. With its shifting moods and intricate layers, this is a track to get lost in. Highly recommended.
