Considering its seamless transitions and moody ambience, the track “Faded” is aptly named. Each section fades naturally into the next. The album art shows a similar nuance– both intense and dreamy, composed of thickly applied brushstrokes. The cover is evocative and well-suited for the track. “Faded” explores the trajectory of a relationship slowly dissolving.
“Faded” is compositionally varied. The track maintains a consistent sound but spans a range of different emotions and Sam Wright integrates vastly different instrumental sections. “Faded” is a unique track, as well as one that is enjoyable to listen to. It can be difficult to find the balance between complexity and catchiness. The track’s complexities enhance the sound rather than detracting from the listening experience and making it too busy. Wright showcases musical aptitude in a seamless way, not getting bogged down by the details.
The atmosphere is moody, yet smooth and melodic. Percussive elements are rhythmic, and more upbeat sections keep “Faded” from approaching monotony. Melancholy background effects are used, becoming trembly at times. The vocals are lovely, but the percussion especially shines on this track. Each of the track’s aspects work together in a precise way. No one feature of “Faded” is relied on too heavily.
From the initial notes of “Faded”, I was struck by the initial bossa line and cymbal. Guitar builds then abruptly cuts out into softer vocals. The harsh guitar build reminds me of the intro to The Strokes’ “Reptilia”. The track then segways into a brief drum solo and then into a back and forth guitar line. In this section, the guitar line and the vocals seem to echo each other, a call and response of sorts. It’s interesting to note that the vocals seem more steady and regular– the guitar is the more varied of the two.
The section at 1:09 is very beautiful in particular. Vocals such as “I’ve been waiting” contrast with the “but you don’t see me” in the more upbeat call and response section. At 2:15, the Tame Impala-esque break slowly builds with bossa beat. Eventually, shrill and cutting guitar lines are added with wild abandon. The dissonance and more aggressive percussive elements aren’t out of place. The track cuts back to a more regular section (“but you don’t see me”). “Faded” ends with cymbal echoing, a soft and natural conclusion.
I found myself returning to listen to “Faded.” The track requires a few listens, both to pick up on its smaller details and simply because of its catchiness. “Faded” reminds me of tracks by King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard (“Intrasport '' is my favorite of theirs). I was struck by the similarities: the intricacies of the tracks, as well as well-integrated jazzy lines.
