Bastille flawlessly integrates cinematic level instrumentation into their iconic songwriting throughout their entire discography. From songs such as “Pompeii” to the meaning behind the band’s name, Bastille has always found inspiration in history and works of art. Their upcoming album, & (Ampersand), is centered around stories about different historical figures and pop culture icons. In their latest single, “Blue Sky & The Painter,” the group explores the story of the Norwegian expressionist painter, Edvard Munch, and his experience with depression. He struggled with alcoholism and was admitted to a hospital in 1908 due to his declining mental health. After being released, he began looking into external subject matter as his muse, rather than his inner demons. In the chorus, lead vocalist and the track’s sole songwriter, Dan Smith, illustrates the first glimmer of sunlight after weeks… months… years of glum darkness. The narrator feels hopeful, expressing their relief that they might finally be free of the depression that has been keeping them trapped. While this is all anyone who has battled with mental illness would ever hope for, it is also scary when this is all they have ever known. In the bridge, Smith sings "Would I be who I am without the sadness in me?” This gut-wrenching lyric pierces the heart of the listener, especially those that have been in the shoes of the painter. Once they are healed of their depression, will they still be creative? Or was the dark cloud surrounding them what made them unique? Similarly to any Bastille song, “Blue Sky & The Painter” tells a thought-provoking story using real life scenarios that any listener can relate to, highlighting the band’s remarkable talent.
“Blue Sky & The Painter” contains the powerful soundscape that Bastille has become known for. In the chorus, Smith repeats the lines “Is that a blue sky?” and “It’s about damn time.” The repetition emphasizes the desperation behind the lyrics, using not only the words but the manner in which they are recited to enhance the heavy emotions. The song begins with an ethereal intro containing Smith’s stunning vocalizations and soft synth waves. After a couple measures, a deep bass is introduced, reeling the listener into the song’s mesmerizing sound. When the verse begins, an acoustic guitar complements the stunning vocals, propelling the listener into the effervescent soundscape. In the pre-chorus, the production starts to build before breaking into the chorus where the intensity reaches its peak. Bastille has the impeccable ability to tell a full cinematic experience through vivid storytelling and complex instrumentation. Their music has resonated with me since their debut album’s release, making them one of my favorite bands of the modern era.
Bastille is a British alt-pop band, formed as a solo project in 2010 by founder and lead vocalist, Dan Smith. The group later expanded to include keyboardist Kyle Simmons, bassist and guitarist Will Farquarson. and drummer Chris "Woody" Wood. They have released four full length studio albums, one live album, and twelve EPs. “Blue Sky & The Painter” is the band’s latest single from their upcoming fifth album, & (Ampersand), set for release on October 25, 2024. Bastille is known for their pop/indie rock soundscapes that consist of meaningful lyrics and stunning instrumentals. They are currently ranked as the 315th most listened to artist in the world on Spotify, with their most streamed songs being their hit single, “Pompeii” (1.6+ Billion streams), and their infectious Marshmello collaboration, “Happier” (2.2+ billion streams). In just under 15 years, Bastille has made themselves a household name, with everyone knowing and loving at least one song by the band (if not a whole album, like myself). They are heading out on tour to promote their new album, so make sure you check out their website and follow them on all social media for more information on dates and where to purchase tickets!
Written By Karlee Skipper
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