Polyvinyl, known for their synth-rock energy and sparkle, not least thanks to singer Annabelle’s handmade rhinestone corset, take a complete change of direction following the success of their recent EP Where This Ends. ‘Seasons’ is a stripped-back acoustic palate cleanser, written and delivered with tenderness and emotion in memory of a close friend of the band.
The mood of the track is clear from the start, with gentle, intimate fingerpicked bass guitar supported by warm strings, creating a beautifully rounded, mellow sound. As Annabelle’s vocals join, they are sympathetic and clear, sitting forward of the instruments and giving the lyrics space to be heard.
Anyone who has experienced the loss of a loved one will recognise the feeling of memories remaining the same while time inevitably moves on. The imagery of changing seasons and turning leaves, while the mind insists ‘it’s the same as before’, beautifully captures that contradiction, as well as the desperate desire to cling to memories, keep someone close and honour a promise never to forget them.
A soaring guitar builds both the sound of the track and its sense of heartache. Layered vocals support Annabelle’s as her delivery grows in intensity, while the instrumentation takes on equal importance without overwhelming the song’s emotional message. Hints of Holly Humberstone and Phoebe Bridgers flow through the track, but Polyvinyl’s signature elements remain clear.
Lyrically, the track is not complex, and that makes it all the more comforting: ‘stories that used to be yours and mine’ and ‘don’t let the colours fade away’. These are the memories that keep those we’ve lost alive in our minds. I’m sure many listeners will have this on repeat, not just for its acoustic beauty, but for the space it offers to reflect and find emotional solace.
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