UK indie rock soloist James Parkinson AKA One Cure for Man has released his most stirring track yet, “The Haunted.” Following the death of his friend, Parkinson was inspired to write this stunning tribute to a poet, teacher, and passionate music follower. But when listening to this track, you will find more than just a loving homage to his dear friend. You will also find a cautionary tale. The song provides a critique of social media, warning us that what we perceive is not always the truth. It serves as a stark reminder that we may sometimes envy the portrayed lives of others based on what they choose to show us on social media, but that perhaps we should not. 

Parkinson’s friend was lively, soulful and in love with all kinds of music. The video that accompanies this new track captures these elements perfectly and celebrates his life. Taking cues from Edward Hopper’s artwork, the imagery is nothing short of stunning and has such a vivid and imaginative feel. 

The music acts as the ideal base for this emotive piece, pianos and guitars dancing together to create a symphony of pain and love. Soaring above the oceanic depths of the tunes, is Parkinson’s unique falsetto vocals, telling us the heartbreaking tale of the track. 

The entire song is put together beautifully, with each element combining forces to create a masterpiece of emotional expression. But there are more than just feelings here. Within the words lies a powerful wisdom and spectacular message about not believing everything we see and hear on social media. 

James Parkinson started One Cure for Man in 2012. This solo project has spawned four albums to date, with “The Haunted” being only the latest in a long list of brilliant tracks that make us feel and make us think. Never one to shy away from personal themes, the singer songwriter often takes inspiration from key events within his own life. He has a way of taking tragedy and expressing gorgeous tributes, stirring our minds as intently as our hearts. 

This latest offering from Parkinson is him at his best. We can feel the emotion because he has felt it. We can learn the lessons because he has learned them. Every single one of his songs is him sharing a very private part of himself, allowing us to do far more than just be entertained by a great piece of music. You will feel, you will think and you will learn something from this truly epic track.

 indie      rock 

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Author: Harley Houghton

Harley Houghton is a writer and blogger, based in Melbourne, Australia. Her passions include music, especially metal, gaming and comics. Check out her blog www.harleysmadhouse.com and follow her on Twitter.