Prepare yourself for two minutes of lightning-fast guitar riffs blazing the trail of “Silver Rabbit” by Paul Smith. The Maximo Park frontman is using the song to hype up the release his fourth solo album, Diagrams. The LP is scheduled to fall on October 26 from Billingham Records. According to Paul Smith, “[It’s] a punchy song where the self-doubt and regret in the lyrics are mirrored by the musical tension that develops as it goes along.”
I don’t think I can muster a better description of the way the song makes me feel. Paul Smith may sound like a frantic punk rocker, but the statement shows off his ability to portray complex human emotions in his songwriting.
“Silver Rabbit” is a blistering song with a sound that brings late night garage jams to mind.
Put another coin in the machine
Just to watch it fall
Forever is as long as we’re alive
So make the call
There’s definitely a tension that intensifies while the song pushes forward. With only two short choruses, it might seem like there isn’t enough room to grow. Still, Paul Smith is an expert at pushing the boundaries to get the point across. His vocals are the epitome of the self-doubt and regret expresses in the lyrics. There isn’t much going on lyrically, but he still somehow manages to tell a story with limited wordplay that borders on the line of predictable. Paul’s ghostly vocal delivery really opens up during the bridge that carries into the chorus.
Oh no, I couldn’t watch it fall
“Silver Rabbit” makes an emotional impact lyrically and instrumentally. The vibe inspires a feeling similar to a frantic rush down a rocky mountain. Like any good punk-studded track, there’s a full tank of energy driving the song. You just can’t ignore it. The ride feels good.
As aggressive as the song sounds, Paul’s voice mirrors the moments before rain falls, especially when the “oh no” of the chorus comes howling down the corridor. It’s soft and cloudy with a powerful presence.
A Song to Keep Us Guessing for What’s to Come
Quite honestly, this is a hard song to wrap your head around. The true theme of the song is entirely for grabs. It’s always refreshing to get hit with songwriting that’s open for interpretation. It keeps it interesting for us! I find myself revisiting the song and leaving with a different opinion of its meaning every other play through. It’s exciting, frustrating, and enjoyable all at the same time. Imagine the flavor of a salted caramel dipped into a vat of melted Neapolitan ice cream. There’s something strange and alluring about it, which is why we dig Paul Smith and look forward to the rest of Diagrams.
We’re curious and excited for what’s next for Paul Smith. His solo discography is expanding, and we’re dying to experience Diagrams front to back.
