Channeling the classic, Britpop sound, indie rock band Lapels have returned with their latest single, “The Life & Times.” With an Oasis inspired, balladeer quality, singer Nathan Pointon takes command as a concerned, but distant, observer of someone who’s down and out. A mix of aloof and worry, “The Life & Times” captures the helpless feeling of watching someone self-destruct.
As a seemingly passive witness, Pointon has removed himself from the vicinity of someone else’s personal meltdown. As much as he cares, he does not want to get his hands dirty with the mess they are in. Instead, he acknowledges their troubles and offers a basic level of encouragement to push them towards finding their own way out.
Tapping into the simplicity of an acoustic driven intro, Pointon provides a lightweight introduction to what turns out to be a heavy tune. For a few moments, it’s disarming, but it all leads up to a full fledged, pop rock ballad. All of the disheartened notions that Pointon has planted become realized inside of a jaunty, yet subdued melody.
Throughout this tune, Pointon is appealing to someone else’s natural will to survive. It’s audibly clear how much concern there is on his part. At the same time, he’s not twisting himself up in knots over it. The main refrain is “I heard it’s bad for your health. You’ve gotta get up and help yourself.” He concludes with “you’ve everything to give. So, give yourself another fighting chance. Oh please.”
The aforementioned chorus is tweaked by the song’s end to create a sizable, emotional distance. After “a fighting chance,” Pointon throws in the towel by stating “I don’t want no part in this dance.” Tired of the back and forth, he puts the ball in their court. It’s their move and let the chips fall where they may.
Instead of opting for the catchy, toe tapping Britpop, Lapels chose the poignant route with “The Life & Times.” It is poppy enough, but still carries enough emotional weight to it. Altogether, “The Life & Times” stirs enough palpable emotion without becoming saccharin in taste.
Written by Travis Boyer
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