Eight of Spades by SECONDHAND DREAMCAR is a funky, retro soul ballad about finding joy in life no matter what at any given moment. The title references the Eight of Pentacles, a tarot card symbolising finding joy in mundanity. The band’s name also references this indestructible joy. I wonder whether this will be a consistent theme across their catalogue. SECONDHAND DREAMCAR feels like an acceptance of what you have available right now to get what you want, a way to bring dreams close to reality.
This philosophy rings true with me and reflects how many people see the world. There is this concept of the hedonic treadmill underpinning everything we do that suggests that no matter what happens to us, positive or negative, we will return to our base level of happiness because happiness is not permanent. It feels like this interpretation of finding joy and purpose in life is consistent with how I have found happiness in my own life. This personal connection is what drew me to the track.
The vocals convey a sense of passion from beginning to end. Their delivery is enriched by a beautiful brass accompaniment that periodically follows the melody and then acts more like a counter melody or call and response. This technique provides contrast to the sonic tapestry of the track. The vocals are refined further by harmonies in the more emphatic parts of the song. During those sections, the vocals reminded me of Carole King. The composition feels busy but never crowded or chaotic. The palpable chemistry between the bandmates helps the song stay on the right side of that busy-chaotic line.
SECONDHAND DREAMCAR’s first track has introduced us to their retro soul funk with a bang. I am excited to see where they go next. I hope they stick to the unique and well-articulated themes they explored on this track.
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