Music runs deep in Phoebe Coco’s DNA. Having an uncle who drummed for Bowie and Jagger must have had its perks! Combine such a connection to rock royalty along with her mother touring as part of Hair, Coco’s music-making foundations were set in solid concrete.
Fast forward a few years and the footing of Coco’s creativity has been constructed brick by brick into a strong fortress. Released via Sharp Attack Records, her latest single, Brick Wall, is out on the 5th of June. It would’ve passed The Old Grey Whistle Test and will have you singing along in no time.
Brick Wall begins with a pulsing drum machine and flowing synths before Coco’s vocal narration enters proceedings. Her lyrics tell a tale while her delivery is soft, gentle, and airy. The song is bound to entice you with its magical and celestial qualities.
This recording has plenty of weight behind it. Co-produced by Marc Makarov, Vanessa Anne Redd, and Phoebe Coco herself, it is a troupe that works to perfection. Makarov brings dance and electronica know-how, Anne Redd throws in an alternative spin, while Coco’s songwriting prowess artfully paints a picture. Add mixing engineer Eduardo De Le Paz into the mix, who’s discography is a sight to behold, and the ingredients are there for a delicacy.
It is a breezy, dreamlike tune with hooks and alluring harmonies. Towards the latter end, as the piano tenderly underpins the song, you can’t help but feel this is a track that transcends space and time. It has the charm and nostalgia of a Nico record, but with the addition of Coco’s signature vocals. The retrospective nature is contrasted with the use of electronica, consequently producing a song of intertwined beauty. Brick Wall is a contemporary, flower power gem for a new generation.