‘Silver Fingers’ is the first release from The Son(s) since their 2014 album The Things I Love Are Not at Home, released on the ever brilliant Olive Grove Records. It’s mood is at once gloomy and hopeful (and therefore, of course, in perfect step with our times).
The song was written and recorded whilst socially distancing during ‘apoca-lockdown; in April 2020. Lyrically, it’s densely packed with detail and layers of meaning – it rewards repeat listening. The Son(s) seem to be drawing comparisons between the dread and fear which characterised the Cold War and the now of COVID-19. It perfectly encapsulates the world as it was in the first weeks of lockdown, before the world was shaken by the seismic and terrible murder of George Floyd. It’s not all doom though, the chorus hints at a hope for better times. ‘Wait it out and it’ll be alright’ is the promise. We can hope.
The accompanying video, shot in Leith before and during the pandemic, is a rain soaked and, given the short timeline, strangely nostalgic affair. Glimpses of recently commonplace rituals and gatherings, some now impossible, swim under the wash of water and contrast with now empty streets. There are glimpses of clubbers moving in a strobe picked room, traditional dancers hand in hand on the street, music in Leith Theatre – a child waving sparklers reminds that November and what was normal wasn’t so long ago.
Listen to/buy ‘Silver Fingers’ (Olive Grove Records) via The Son(s)’ Bandcamp.
