Singer-songwriter Emma Noren continues to feed the alternative rock/pop genre with a new single “Domino.” The track has a very old alternative vibe to it but still manages to hold true to the new wave of indie pop. The song holds themes of longing for a feeling of pleasure and overall happiness and the journey that can be at times. Noren pairs heavy lyrics with a unique bass sequence for a tone that overall makes the song stand out.
The track’s foundation is in the lyrics, focusing on the themes of this almost out-of-reach journey to happiness. There’s a longing for this physical feeling in the body to indicate true happiness but not understanding what that should even feel like. Opening the track with “I don’t think I know how to be happy” immediately tells the listener what to expect from the song. There’s no guessing around the nature of the lyrics; they’re straightforward, angsty and a bit daring. There’s a rather moody layer that lingers throughout the song as well that is complemented by the melody.
Melodically, the song is unique in how it combines an ethereal synth with an electric bass sequence. Noren’s voice has a distinct sound that, paired against the beat, is whimsical in nature despite the tone of the lyrics she’s actually singing. The contrast creates a truly captivating sound bound to keep the listener engaged. Introducing the slow build into a song with this specific sound also manages to build a tension that keeps the audience on the edge of their seat. There’s a fusion in sounds that creates a mesmerizing effect, combining the musical composition, lyricism and tonal quality of her voice.
