Rock music is a vast and fascinating genre, with many different artists giving their own unique spins on
the genre, and Sun King Rising is no exception. Incorporating many different eclectic sounds and
instruments from various other genres, Sun King Rising’s music is a wonderfully pretty blend of
characteristics you wouldn’t expect to work together, but somehow just do against all odds. Nowhere is
that more obvious than in their latest single, “No. 6 Magnolia Avenue.”
The new single is an upbeat, uproariously positive and feel-good time, championing the healing power
of love. It combines many aspects of jazz swing and southern style rock, paired with powerful and
commanding vocals from John Blangero himself, to great effect. There’s a lot to unpack here, so let’s
start with the composition and music itself.
Sun King Rising throws a ton of different instruments into the mix of this single, but surprisingly,
everything works nicely with each other. Smooth and punchy basslines, trumpets, piano, saxophone,
marimbas, even a tuba at certain parts. It keeps a steady rhythm, adding new elements and keeping
things sounding brisk and clean despite the layered composition. It effortlessly weaves a wall of sound,
never having a dull moment throughout our entire playthrough.
John’s vocals on “No. 6 Magnolia Avenue,” elevate the song further, as his powerful voice pierces
through the wall of sound and carries it forward through its melodies. His vocals are crisp and clear,
guiding song through its motions effortlessly.
Boosting things further is the songwriting on display, which is equal measures joyful and nostalgic
sounding. While many of the lyrics come off almost fantastical in nature, the emotions and themes of
the song keep it mostly grounded and fun. “No. 6 Magnolia Avenue,” doesn’t tend to take itself too
seriously, matching its pleasant warm tone just fine.
We’ll also give special credits to the production on this single. Despite its many different elements and
layered sound, everything stays sounding clean. The complexity of the single is kept in check, as every
instrument blends in and out of the mix seamlessly. John’s voice rises above the mix, but doesn’t
overshadow the other elements, which is great.
In conclusion, “No. 6 Magnolia Avenue,” is an excellent song, especially if you like hearing genres
blending together seamlessly to create something fresh and new. The melodies and singing are catchy,
and with clever songwriting, it makes for an incredibly memorable listen. Definitely one you don’t want
to miss out on. We can’t wait to see what’s next for Sun King Rising!
