Today I’m delving into a track that’s completely blindsided me in the best way possible. It’s from an artist I hadn’t come across before, but after giving this song a spin, I’m convinced I’ll be spending the next few days exploring every inch of their discography. The track in question is ‘I Am the Suu’ by Rob Massard, and it’s a real star that dropped back in June.
What makes this discovery even more exciting is that Massard hails from Detroit. As someone who spent a good chunk of time in the Motor City, and with several of our staff members calling it home, there’s always a special thrill in uncovering talent from Michigan. It’s like finding a connection to those old stomping grounds, a musical postcard from a place that’s shaped so many of us.
Now, I’ve prided myself on having a pretty comprehensive knowledge of folk fusion. I’ve dipped my toes into everything from Celtic punk to electro-folk, but progressive folk. Well, that’s a new one on me. And I can say, if ‘I Am the Sun’ is any indication of what this genre has to offer, I’m kicking myself for not discovering it sooner.
There’s something about this track that’s just inherently uplifting. It’s got an energy to it, a vitality that seeps into your bones and makes you want to move, to create, to do something. It’s inspiring in a way that I wasn’t expecting, especially from a genre I’d never explored before.
As someone who’s always had a soft spot for progressive metal, I found myself pleasantly surprised by how this song managed to scratch a similar itch. It’s got that complexity, that intricate layering of sounds and ideas that I love about prog metal, but it’s channeling it through a completely different medium. It’s like finding a new favorite food that somehow reminds you of an old comfort dish – familiar and exciting all at once.
So let’s break this track down, shall we. I want to explore every nook and cranny of this song, to really get into the nitty-gritty of what makes it work so well. From the instrumentation to the structure, from the lyrics to the overall vibe, we’re going to leave no stone unturned.
‘I am the Sun’ opens with an intriguing blend of sounds that really sets it apart. There’s this subtle, otherworldly effect in the background – almost like a laser, but not quite. It’s hard to pin down, but it creates an atmosphere that’s both modern and timeless. Layered over this is something that can only be described as angelic.
A few gentle strums come in, and the effect is incredibly serene. It’s as if the song is easing you in. The warm, gentle guitar melody that follows is wonderful. I found myself completely drawn in by its simple beauty. But Massard doesn’t stop there. Just as you’re settling into the guitar, a bass line kicks in. The way it syncs up with the guitar is nothing short of masterful. It’s one of those musical moments that just feels right – you couldn’t imagine it any other way.
From the very beginning, there’s this harmonious repetition of “rise up.” When the main vocals start, they blend seamlessly with this established rhythm, creating a cohesive sound that’s truly impressive. There’s another instrument at play here that’s got me stumped. It’s not quite a banjo, but it’s got that kind of folksy feel to it. It’s incredibly subtle and gentle, adding depth to the track without overpowering the other elements. I wish I could tell you exactly what it is, but whatever it is, it’s providing a fantastic vibe to the overall sound. Maybe it is a banjo.
The way all these elements come together is really something special. It’s clear that a lot of thought and care went into the arrangement. Each component complements the others, creating a rich, layered sound that rewards close listening. What strikes me most about this opening is how it manages to be both soothing and engaging. It’s got this calming quality that washes over you, but at the same time, there’s enough going on to keep you fully invested in the music. It’s a delicate balance, and Massard pulls it off beautifully.
The production quality here is top-notch too. Every instrument is crystal clear in the mix, allowing you to appreciate each individual element while still enjoying the overall effect. It’s the kind of sound that makes you want to close your eyes and just let the music hit you.
As ‘I am the Sun’ progresses, it continues to surprise and delight with its complex layering of sounds. Just before the line about being the universe, some cool string elements make their entrance. They’re not quite violins or cellos, but they evoke that same richness of tone. There’s a surreal quality to these strings that’s hard to pin down, but it adds an incredible depth to the track.
During this section, we’re treated to something that sounds more like traditional strings. They really come to the forefront when Massard hits that high note proclaiming “I am the sun.” The effect is powerful, adding a sweeping, cinematic quality to the moment. Just when I thought the song couldn’t get any more ethereal, the second verse introduces what sounds like female backing vocals. The riffing here is sublime, adding yet another cool feature to the mix. It’s the kind of touch that gives you goosebumps – I certainly felt them.
After the chorus, as we move into the second verse, there’s a shift in tone. Some really great guitar work comes in, bringing a more rock-oriented edge to the track. It’s fascinating how Massard manages to fuse these various styles so seamlessly. The blend of folk, rock, and progressive elements is nothing short of brilliant.
This is where ‘I am the Sun’ really starts to lean into its progressive nature. A thumping percussion kicks in with newfound energy. At the same time, various guitar tones begin to play across the stereo field. It’s like the music is coming at you from all directions, creating this immersive, almost 3D effect.
The way Massard utilizes the stereo space is particularly impressive. Each earpiece seems to offer something different, encouraging multiple listens just to catch all the nuances. It’s the kind of production that rewards those who take the time to really sit with the music and absorb all its intricacies.
What’s truly awesome about this track is how it manages to incorporate all these diverse elements without ever feeling cluttered or overwrought. Each new addition feels purposeful, building upon what came before to create something greater than the sum of its parts. The progression of the song from its serene opening to this more complex, layered middle section is a story in itself.
‘I am the Sun’ is a powerful anthem about self-realization and personal growth. The song explores themes of empowerment, encouraging us to embrace our potential and take charge of their own destiny. There’s also an element of transformation present in the lyrics. The idea of breaking down walls and embracing ‘magic’ suggests a journey from a constrained state of being to one of freedom and self-actualization.
Musically, the song’s structure supports this thematic journey. Starting with subtle, ethereal sounds and building to a more complex, layered composition mirrors the lyrical progression from introspection to empowerment. The fade-out at the end, returning to the atmospheric opening, creates a cyclical feel – perhaps suggesting that self-discovery is an ongoing process.
This track really does have a surreal, almost heavenly quality to it. There’s a serenity in the music that’s hard to put into words. It’s the kind of song that can lift your mood and provide a perfect backdrop for zoning out and reflecting. What’s fascinating about ‘I am the Sun’ is how it balances simplicity and complexity. The lyrics are straightforward enough to grasp quickly, but they carry a depth that invites repeated listens and deeper contemplation. It’s thought-provoking in a way that sneaks up on you.
At its core, the song seems to be reminding us that we are the architects of our own lives. We each contain multitudes – like our own personal universe – and we’re at the center of it all, like the sun. It’s a powerful metaphor that really sticks with you.
Rob Massard has created something special here. It’s the kind of release that deserves attention and definitely earns a spot on your playlist. Whether you’re looking for something to lift your spirits, fuel some introspection, or just enjoy some beautifully crafted progressive folk, ‘I am the Sun’ delivers on all fronts.
This track has certainly left an impression on me, and I have a feeling it’ll do the same for many others who give it a listen.
