William McLaughlin‘s latest opus, Better, is an immersive sonic experience that boldly intertwines dark wave atmospherics, textured instrumentation, and metaphorically rich lyrics. From the opening moments, the dimensional bass guitar and textured, syncopated drums pull us into a brooding soundscape that feels both grounded and otherworldly. This rhythmic foundation expands into a dark, almost hypnotic ambiance, driven by McLaughlin’s deeply resonant and brooding vocal delivery.
The track exudes a dynamic complexity that is a hallmark of great songwriting. Layers of intricate guitar work, ranging from avant-garde 8-bit-inspired riffs to a show-stopping, out-of-this-world solo reminiscent of Santana, add a remarkable depth to the composition. The 8-bit riffs, in particular, offer a fascinating contrast, injecting a playful yet dimensional element that enriches the track’s darker tones. McLaughlin’s ability to weave detuned, haunting vocal effects with moments of spoken word adds intrigue and theatricality, reminiscent of early Marilyn Manson or Nine Inch Nails‘ unapologetically experimental style.
The lyrics delve into themes of self-improvement, existential purpose, and the relentless pursuit of personal perfection – a journey McLaughlin balances with the wisdom of finding joy and humour along the way. This thematic richness is echoed in the song’s instrumentation, which mirrors its philosophical tension. The bass hook is an unexpected but welcome flourish, adding a sensual, melodic layer that keeps the track unpredictable yet cohesive.
The song’s psychedelic, stoner-rock vibe is underpinned by avant-garde sound design, with unconventional noises and tonal shifts that invite curiosity and repeated listens. McLaughlin’s intent to resonate with listeners through his unique relationship with life is unmistakably realized in Better. He channels his personality and vision into every note, creating a piece that is not just music but a living, breathing expression of his artistic ethos.
McLaughlin’s aspirations are further amplified by the release strategy for Better, which includes a music video debuting on YouTube ahead of the audio release through amuse. This calculated approach hints at the artist’s commitment to crafting a multi-dimensional experience, ensuring that the visual and auditory components of his work complement and elevate one another.
Better is a bold and adventurous track that encapsulates William McLaughlin‘s artistry and ambition. From its metaphor-laden lyrics to its masterful guitar work, the song is a testament to McLaughlin’s ability to channel his life experiences into a sound that feels authentic and innovative. Fans of dark wave, stoner rock, and experimental music will find much to admire in this piece, and with its layered soundscape and emotional depth, Better positions McLaughlin as an artist worth following. We will be adding Better to our New Music Spotlight playlists and TRIPPY playlists as soon as it drops next week!