Sydney artist Chris Lanzon captures human emotion in ways most songwriters spend a lifetime chasing. He's only released a few songs to date, but his music is as genuine as anything released this year. His latest single, Everest, is the first taste of his second project, after his debut EP Melancholy got people talking. Chris manages to convey the deeply personal in a way that resonates with each listener differently. It’s a talent that’s proving especially important in 2020. We’re currently in a weird state of purgatory, but songs like Everest are a momentary escape.

What does it mean to exist in 2020? It’s a question that I’ve found myself asking myself every day at this point. Life feels like it’s paused. We can make small strides, but we don’t know what the future holds, so committing to anything seems like a mistake. Listening to Everest, there’s a sense of serenity that washes over me. I’m not alone in this uncertainty. Chris makes it seem like it’s going to be ok. This song feels like a warm blanket, in all the best ways.

I’m drawn to how deliberate Everest feels and sounds. There’s no sweeping, grandiose soundscapes to bloat the track. Instead, there’s two main parts to the track - Chris’ vocals, and an acoustic guitar. It’s a testament to his vocal ability that you’re completely captivated from start to finish. Chris’ ability to carry the song with his voice for the first half makes the pop breakdown that hits a minute and a half in that much sweeter. There are so many avenues he can take his music, each equally exciting.

Speaking about the track, Chris says it’s his most revealing song yet. “I think this is the most honest and vulnerable song I’ve made so far, yet it sounds really upbeat and invigorating. I love the contrast of those feelings. It’s really about feeling stuck and misunderstood, but I wanted to explore that in a comforting and warm tone.” It’s a potent sentiment, and one that makes the song relatable, rather than drab and dreary.

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It’s a jazz cliche to talk about the notes that aren’t played, but it’s relevant here. Chris could have packed this song with a beefy drumline, more guitars, a funky bassline and more. It’d still be a good song, thanks to the quality of his voice. What makes it a great song is his confidence in knowing when to hold back, and when to go for it. Everest gives us a glimpse inside Chris’ mind. I’m confident he’s in tune with his musical vision - and it’s only beginning to unfold.