In a world where pop music can sometimes feel formulaic, T.A. Narrative’s latest single, SWAY, is a breath of fresh air. It commands attention with its infectious energy and lush blend of genres, pushing boundaries in all the right ways. The duo, Tara Nix and Anna Murphy, have created a track that feels both timeless and modern, a perfect sonic marriage of their influences, from Prince and Jessie Ware to HAIM and ESG.
From the moment SWAY begins, we’re pulled into its dynamic soundscape, which is rich and multi-dimensional. The layers of funk-infused basslines, disco beats, and thrashing guitars introduce a bold, unapologetic vibe. Produced by Limerick-based Chris Kirby, the track exudes a kind of electric spontaneity, channeling the intensity of T.A. Narrative‘s live performances. There’s an undeniable sense of freedom here – an ethos that has been a defining characteristic of the duo’s work since they first collaborated during lockdown.
The real magic of SWAY lies in its ability to transport us. The opening moments feel cinematic, with intricate sound design that immediately draws you in, as if you’re stepping onto a neon-lit dancefloor in a futuristic film. It’s easy to imagine this track synced in a Hollywood movie, underscoring a pivotal moment of surrender or sensuality. The song seems purpose-built for large, open spaces—stadium-ready, with its surging energy and stadium-sized ambitions.
The vocals are a standout, moving seamlessly between ethereal hooks and the song’s cerebral vintage elements. There’s something about the tone that pulls us in – inviting, seductive, almost conspiratorial. The instrumental work is equally impressive. The thrashing guitar riffs are unexpected yet perfectly placed, adding a visceral punch that elevates the song’s intensity.
The lyrics of SWAY aren’t just about dancing – they evoke a deeper connection. There’s an implicit sensuality and rawness, hinting at the physical and emotional release that comes from immersing yourself in music and movement. Much like their inspirations – Prince’s sensuality, Jessie Ware’s smooth elegance, and HAIM’s confident grooves – T.A. Narrative capture a sense of abandon, urging us to lose ourselves and connect in the moment.
What sets SWAY apart from the crowd of dance-pop tracks is its thoughtful construction. The ebbs and flows keep you on your toes, shifting from serene, atmospheric moments to bursts of high-energy thrashing. There’s a sense of playfulness in the way the track navigates its influences, from post-punk to electronic, disco to rock. It’s this genre fluidity that makes T.A. Narrative such an exciting act to watch, and SWAY is proof that they’re only getting better.
As with their previous work, including the praised EP Retro Futurism, T.A. Narrative‘s soundscapes are immersive and hypnotic. They’ve crafted something that is not only ready for the dancefloor but also rich with artistic intent – there’s meaning behind the beats, a cerebral quality to their hooks. It’s a refreshing take on pop music, one that merges authenticity with a vibrant, polished production.
In a time where so much of the music scene is driven by quick, disposable hits, SWAY stands out as a track with staying power. It’s a song that invites repeated listens, each time revealing new layers of complexity. T.A. Narrative is proving that pop music can be both introspective and electrifying, and SWAY is the ultimate invitation to dance, feel, and let go. We have added the opus to our New Music Spotlight playlist, as well as our TRIPPY and TIMELESS playlists, whilst we continue to stream the wider discography of T.A. Narrative, and anticipate future releases!