Like the steady rumbling of an unseen oncoming train, the latest by Toronto-based folk songwriter Danté Ravenhearst seems to emerge from the distance with a certain spine-tingling sensation that suggests there’s much more underneath the surface of this brooding folk-rock track.
Its initial beatings are steady and purposeful as the drums provide an encouraging pulse to the bass that is casually bumping alongside before Ravenhearst joins the ensemble, speaking perhaps as much to herself as to the awaiting audience, “Where are you?”
With just a dash of diaphanous despair, the question is repeated throughout and strengthened by the harmonious backing vocals of the band. Growing more and more ambient as the track continues, it seems to take on an almost spiritual turn as though we’re being brought away from the traumatic experience that has us yearning for another and into a vast cavernous realm in which there may not be any relief from the pain the loss brings us.
“Asphalt” came together in late 2023, a collaborative effort by Ravenhearst and musicians Ben McWebb, Kurt Van Bendege and Jonathan Horvath, produced by Matt Fasullo. Speaking to the inspiration of the track, Ravenhearst says:
Quote: “I am really entranced by the correlation of loss between our emotional and physical spaces and the mourning that comes with that,” says Ravenhearst of the thread of environmental and emotional grief that flows through her music. ‘Asphalt’ is about searching for a connection that existed in a world that physically no longer exists. Its question “Where are you? Where are you?” hauntingly chanted to the listener, is only asked and never answered.”
While understanding that the question will never reach an answer, as the track comes to an elongated close with subtle resolve, we are left alone with the indelible feeling of uncertainty.
The track, beautifully built and successful in the captivating way it inspires a second spin, maintains a meditative rhythm that is sure to appeal to those who find comfort in escaping into deep reflection and speculation.
Keep up with Danté Ravenhearst by visiting their website and social media channels.
Crooked Forest 