The Art Crimes Band’s newest single “Neon Skyline” captures the nostalgia of strolling down the street of a bustling city in the 1980’s. Their music has a way of transporting you to another time, an older and easier time.
“Neon Skyline” is the result of a nighttime drive from Los Angeles to Las Vegas. Guitarist Stephen Kirby was captivated by the Las Vegas lights washing over the horizon and began to think of a drum beat and guitar rift. It took 10 years, but this special moment turned into “Neon Skyline” with the help of lyrics inspired by Jay McInerney’s novel “Bright Lights, Big City”.
The track begins with a Bruce Springsteen-like 80’s beat. It immediately makes you want to get up and move. In between tracks, there is a sultry saxophone played by Gary Baus. Lead singer Grace McMahon’s voice is light and a little bit raspy, and is an incredibly satisfying contrast against the richness of the saxophone. “Neon Skyline” has the kind of melody you can’t get out of your head. It’s reminiscent of nostalgic movie scenes where the protagonist is in search of something BIG.
The line that stood out to me the most is, “I need to feel something tonight, like love.” It’s simple and honest and very relatable. I think most people know what it’s like to desperately want to feel something. Anything. And to hope that thing will be love. “Neon Skyline” captures a fragile emotion. The times when warm city lights feel like they’re mocking you.
Reviewed by Gabriela Huselton
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