The Kids by Animal Souls is a beautifully crafted piece of music that blends retro soundscapes with heartfelt storytelling. Written by Michael Fisher 35 years ago, the opus has evolved into a timeless track that feels as fresh today as it did when it was first conceived. It’s a testament to the enduring power of music to grow and adapt while still holding onto its original essence.
This latest version of The Kids feels like the definitive rendition, brought to life by an ensemble of incredible musicians. Fisher’s approach to music is clear: the heart of the song dictates its arrangement, rather than sticking rigidly to any one genre. What emerges is a track with a deeply unique identity that transcends traditional musical boundaries.
From the very first notes, the song creates a shimmering and almost hypnotic atmosphere. Preston Sawyer’s electric guitar sets the tone, evoking a mood that feels both reflective and immersive, like watching rain trace patterns on a window. John Fultz’s mellotron and organ bring a nostalgic warmth that harks back to classic music eras, while Fisher’s bass and acoustic guitar provide the foundation. Dan Cripps’ drumming adds an understated but essential rhythm, allowing the track to flow naturally.
There’s a moment in the song where the sound of rain takes centre stage. It feels like the song itself pauses to breathe, creating space for the listener to reflect. This meditative break sets up the soaring guitar solo that follows, a stunning and emotive moment that captures something almost otherworldly. It’s the kind of solo that leaves a lasting impression, carrying the emotional weight of the song to new heights.
Lyrically, The Kids is both poignant and profound, exploring themes of innocence, fear, and love. The story revolves around a small town disrupted by the arrival of a mysterious stranger. While the adults react with suspicion and mistrust, the children embrace the stranger, recognizing him as a symbol of love. The line, “The stranger has a name… and his name is Love,” is especially moving, serving as a powerful reminder of the purity and openness of youth.
Fisher reflects on how children see the world without the fear and prejudice that often come with age. The lyrics speak to the idea that as we grow older, we lose some of that unfiltered ability to see the good in others. This universal theme resonates deeply, encouraging us to reconsider our own perceptions and biases.
The journey of The Kids began in 1989 when Fisher first wrote the song. Over the years, it has undergone numerous transformations, including a version featured on Animal Souls’ 2021 album Wisdom of Crowds. Yet, Fisher describes this latest version as the one that truly captures the heart of the song. His dedication to revisiting and refining his work speaks to his passion for his craft and his commitment to creating something meaningful.
The production is a triumph, balancing warmth and clarity to ensure every element shines. Engineered by Pete Cordalis and mastered by Greg Mindorff, the track showcases the talents of Ava Wolsynuk on vocals, Preston Sawyer on guitar, John Fultz on organ and mellotron, and Dan Cripps on drums. Each musician brings their own unique energy to the track, creating a seamless and richly layered arrangement. The artwork by Michelle Duff adds a visual dimension to the song’s themes, enhancing the overall experience.
At its core, The Kids is a reflection on the transformative power of love and the untainted perspective of children. It invites listeners to question how fear and mistrust shape their own views and challenges them to see the world with more openness and compassion. The song lingers long after it ends, leaving behind a sense of hope and a renewed appreciation for the beauty of human connection.
Michael Fisher has truly created something special with The Kids. It’s a track that manages to be both deeply personal and universally resonant, a rare combination that speaks to the depth of his artistry and vision. We have added the track to our New Music Spotlight playlist, and our TIMELESS playlist, whilst we continue to stream the wider discography of Animal Souls!