Besides simply parting ways, a break-up has a way of maintaining a mental hold on you long after the last crossed words are uttered. Some can move on without a care in the world, while others can’t shake off what once was. Nashville singer-songwriter Luke Boor’s new single, “Queens,” follows the one-track mind of someone dwelling on a failed relationship as they ride out their emotions alone.
Keeping with the deep, lost in thought theme of the track, “Queens” takes upon a methodical melodic approach. From mimicking the high pitch of beeping train horns to the clickety clack pacing of its drums and acoustics, it chugs along at a leisurely speed. However, “Queens” picks up stream with each uphill climb into the chorus, cresting with a much more upbeat swing. Altogether, “Queens” is not only an atmospheric treat, but also echoes the pseudo-mechanical side that occurs through mentally processing the sudden end of a once-promising relationship.
Part of “Queens” hinges upon imagining that your former partner is free of emotional entanglement, living their best life over 3000 miles away. Meanwhile, in the real world, you can’t see yourself moving forward from all of the damage they caused. However, in recognition that “once again, you jumped the gun,” “Queens” is about being too eager, too sincere with your feelings while you’re at a 10, but they’re at about a 6.5 on the commitment scale. In the end, it arrives at a bit of deserving consolation of convincing yourself that they were not good for you after all.
Instead of adding another dramatic entry into the woe is me, sub-genre of break-up songs, Boor crafted together a thoughtful rendering of listlessness via “Queens.” Rather than a heavy handed style of ennui, it lightly eschews the bleak level of despair of being emotionally deadened. Altogether, “Queens” substitutes in a pop-tinged melancholy that feels much more natural than some of its dour counterparts.
Written by Travis Boyer
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