Review: "Close" - MERLYN

Wrap yourself in a dreamy cascade of synths and comfort with “Close” from artist MERLYN. The first single off his upcoming album, Insomniac, MERLYN’s new single “Close” reflects on a tale of love and trust in the face of hardship and uncertainty. Merlyn describes his love life in complex, detailed terms that showcase a dynamic, nearly indescribable ability behind this track. While this work exemplifies the best qualities of pop, “Close” cannot be simply defined under these terms. As this track describes romantic experiences gone sour, as well as finding oneself and the “right” connection after these experiences, MERLYN allows “Close” to morph from one genre to another. At times, you’ll find yourself drawn to synths that remind you of 80's music success. During others, you’ll be transfixed by MERLYN’s smooth and polished vocals that remind you of 90’s pop excellence. 

With lush and dream-like production, “Close” is a track that transports you to a place beyond the storybook laid out before listeners. While the introduction entails feeling unsatisfied following a failed romantic connection, the overarching message behind “Close” is to entrust that when the right connection comes along, it’ll be worth all previous trials and tribulations. As MERLYN describes falling headfirst into a connection thriving off of honesty, close physical touch, emotional intimacy, and pure energy, you’re whisked along on this journey with him. While this song is ultimate fun and plays off a multitude of energy-inducing, spellbinding genres, it does not shy away from the nitty-gritty of relationships. Part of the reason why the feeling of affection and close connection builds throughout the song is that MERLYN allowed himself to be vulnerable. This vulnerability unlocks an ability for him to become open to other possible connections, as well as explore what romance truly means for him. As this song unravels, you feel yourself in the same headspace as MERLYN and following a journey that feels entirely both personal and applicable to others. 

MERLYN is the self-produced singer-songwriter project of David Senécal. Growing up in the suburbs of Montréal, Canada, David was part of a non-musical family but developed an obsession with it at age six, leading him to play many instruments (piano, guitar, french horn, and flute) and produce music of his own. Finding relief in writing his own fantasies and plunging heartbreaks & infatuations into his work, David finds comfort in creating his own world and forming MERLYN. A queer and strength-laced ode to vulnerability and femininity, MERLYN was formed to create understanding and help others feel uplifted and moved. With his first single, Morning Sex, from 2019, MERLYN garnered over 5k streams on Spotify and was able to display his sultry, powerful vocals that additionally showcase inspiration taken from techno-house music. With the 2024 release of his biggest hit, Plan B, MERLYN was able to put his grooviness on full display for future projects. Now, with an array of unreleased songs under his belt, MERLYN has many surprises to come.

Written By Madison Spies

FOLLOW MERLYN:

Instagram | Spotify | Facebook | YouTube