Singer-songwriter Zach Bailey is a champion of quiet places and small spaces. For many people during the COVID pandemic, lockdowns and social distancing meant watching the walls close in around them, gradually making their worlds smaller and more isolated. Bailey, on the other hand, managed to etch out a whole new universe with only his voice and guitar. His new single, “Corner of the Universe,” explores the possibility of refuge offered by relative isolation, as well as the bliss of sharing it with someone you love.
Bailey’s songwriting style is quintessential indie folk, his unforced breathy voice and soulful guitar playing put you at ease and invite you into his inner world. His picking on the guitar is complemented by minimal kickdrum and the long, sonorous tones of a small string ensemble. There are no rough edges to this song, only comfort and soothing reflection.
“Corner of the Universe” celebrates love and introspection, evoking the physical sensations of feeling sunlight on your face, running your hands through your lover’s hair, and resting your head on his chest. Bailey finds peace anchored in individual moments and simple pleasures, showing us that, even when we cannot go outside, there is still plenty of beauty to be found in the little things we encounter every day. As the world begins to emerge from quarantine, Bailey’s message will be no less relevant. It is always good to have a reminder of the things that are most important, and most times you do not have to travel very far to find them.
“Corner of the Universe” is available on all major streaming platforms.
Written by Jacob Jahiel
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