After successfully completing the Contemporary Music & Technology Program at Selkirk College in 2015, Ben Sefton embarked on a dedicated journey to hone his craft and perfect his musical compositions. What began as a budding passion for songwriting during his teenage years transformed into a full-blown obsession, propelling Ben to create hundreds of unreleased songs. Influenced by the infectious pop melodies of The Beach Boys, Frank Ocean, and Andy Shauf, coupled with a fervor for candid lyrical witticism and wordplay, Ben has cultivated a unique and distinctive musical style.
In March 2020, Ben marked a significant milestone in his career with the release of his debut single, ‘Humans,’ which garnered widespread acclaim from press outlets such as CBC Saskatchewan, CBC Winnipeg, and various music websites across North America, the UK, and Europe. The single found its place on popular pop music playlists, including those owned by Universal Music on Spotify. The accompanying music video for ‘Humans,’ created by the same artist responsible for Grimes’ digital Rolling Stones cover, amassed nearly 100,000 views with a remarkable 100% thumbs-up rating. Adding to his achievements, Ben was awarded a SK Arts Independent Artist’s recording grant in 2020.
Sefton’s latest dark folk single, “Dark Dreams,” promises to be a haunting and evocative musical journey, in which the anticipation is fueled by the artist’s established reputation for crafting immersive and emotionally resonant compositions.
His background in songwriting, as demonstrated by his earlier releases and musical endeavors, suggests a penchant for intricate storytelling and atmospheric soundscapes. The very essence of dark folk implies a blend of melancholy melodies and thought-provoking lyrics, creating a sonic experience that transcends the ordinary.
The title itself, “Dark Dreams,” hints at a lyrical exploration of introspective themes, perhaps delving into the shadows of the human psyche. With Sefton’s track record of drawing inspiration from diverse musical influences listeners can expect a unique fusion of elements that adds depth and complexity to the composition.
Given the positive reception of Ben Sefton’s previous work, particularly the well-received debut single “Humans,” there is a sense of anticipation surrounding “Dark Dreams.” The artist’s ability to captivate audiences with his soulful vocals, combined with his skillful instrumental prowess, sets the stage for a captivating musical experience.
Ben attributes much of his musical growth to the guidance and wisdom imparted by key professors and mentors at Selkirk College, an institution with a notable alumni roster featuring artists like Kiesza and Meghan Trainor. Specializing in composition and driven by an increasing fascination with the intricacies of harmony and songwriting, Ben’s musical palate has consistently expanded.
Under the mentorship of vocal coach Laura Landsberg and fueled by hours of dedicated guitar practice, Ben seamlessly blends his prolific songwriting with formidable vocal and instrumental skills. Drawing inspiration from virtuoso guitarists like John Mayer and Django Reinhardt, as well as the soulful vocals of Frank Sinatra and Dallas Green, Ben finds joy in the perpetual refinement of his abilities. Eager to share his extensive catalog of songs, Ben looks forward to the continued evolution of his musical journey.
One will experience the subtle nuances of acoustic instrumentation, the emotive delivery of lyrics, and the overall atmospheric ambiance that “Dark Dreams” is likely to evoke. It is a testament to Sefton’s artistry that even without direct exposure to the single, the expectation of a thought-provoking and immersive dark folk experience remains high. As listeners await the opportunity to immerse themselves in the haunting melodies of “Dark Dreams,” the promise of a compelling musical narrative is undoubtedly on the horizon.
