“All of Our Friends Know” by Linying is an alluring surprise through which I floated.
The first shock was her voice. The initial note sets a clear, creative tone for the song. It pierces through as a central part of the mix.
Following my astonishment with her vocals was an appreciation for the musical production. There is an ethereal tone set by the synths and rhythm that brings the listener through the beginning of the song. Then, the song explodes into groove as Linying sings about her desire to love despite all the setbacks. Together the range of high and low notes from her crisp, whispy voice and the layered, punchy instrumentation make for a successful song already. More surprises ensue.
Even then I’m tiptoeing with my lightest steps,
and I’ve inherited all of my dad’s bad habits.
She enters into the second verse with admission of her own struggles and the difficulties facing her love. Despite the depth of the subject matter, her light feminine voice brings energy to it. To make it all even better to listen to, the song includes musical hints reminiscent of 80s pop. This song is pure fun to listen to, while also exploring the heartbreak of a dynamic, challenging relationship.
And we’re so deep down our shit to be flawless,
we can’t even think about how we used to be before this –
I love you.
There is so much here – a new vibe to every stanza that allows room for experimenting, a stellar voice that shares emotions beautifully, and a story that is full of feeling told with unique songwriting. Listening to Linying is a special experience. One cannot help but be drawn into her real magic. I am so glad to have to discovered her undeniable skill and her sweet sound. I want all of my friends to know.
