CRYSTAL TIDES WISHES LIFE WAS LIKE THE “MOVIES” IN NEW SINGLE

Did you ever stare at yourself in your parents’ rearview mirror as a kid, pretending to be in a music video? The new single “Movies” by UK-based band Crystal Tides is just that — a cinematic tune that’ll make you want to stare in your own mirror.

This epic track conveys the realities and frustrations of situations that do not unfold as they do on film. Life may seem easier in the movies, as lead singer Billy Gregory repeats throughout the song, especially when our own lives fall into disrepair. The over-calculated flawlessness often displayed post-production is unrealistic, and the band explores this restless feeling throughout the song.

Sonically, it is a stellar piece that maintains a consistent, powerful melody. The lyrics are tight and delivered in an extremely satisfying way, the song’s pace is dynamic, and the guitar is absolutely otherworldly. That haunting riff is, hands down, the highlight of the song and effectively guides the story’s distressed mood.

Whatever happened the night before is not explicitly mentioned, leaving a sense of mystery and allowing listeners to attribute their own experience. Filled with some variant of ‘hangxiety,’ Gregory continues on with the film motif, trying to “repeat and delete and rewind” the actions of whatever happened before.

“Movies” carries punchy and dramatic tones that amp up Crystal Tides’ song roster. The heavier tones are paused later in the song to make way for a thrilling breakdown, which leads to an energetic conclusion. Something that could easily be featured in the climax of a movie is the perfectly timed drum strokes paired with the singing during this part. What can’t be ignored is Crystal Tides’ attention to detail: the breakdown has a rewinding effect that sounds incredible and expands the theme by mimicking the rewind function of a television.

This song has the potential to become a hit because it has it all — illustrative lyrics, dynamic sounds, and overall insane production.