Hidden Figures, the latest single by Andrea Pizzo and the Purple Mice, is a musical odyssey that traverses the realms of science, history, and human connection. At its core, the song is a celebration of intellect and collaboration, yet it is also a profound meditation on the human spirit’s capacity to transcend barriers through unity and purpose.
From its opening moments, the track immerses us in an ethereal atmosphere, where astral synths create a sense of boundless space. The inclusion of Irene Buselli’s vocals adds an otherworldly quality, her voice weaving seamlessly with Andrea Pizzo’s to craft a narrative that is both intimate and expansive. The song’s instrumentation feels cinematic, evoking the grandeur of the cosmos while anchoring itself in the deeply personal stories of its protagonists, Katherine Johnson and John Glenn.
Lyrically, Hidden Figures is rich with philosophical undertones. It speaks to the universality of truth found in mathematics, where numbers are portrayed as incorruptible and egalitarian – a stark contrast to the societal biases Katherine Johnson had to overcome. The refrain, urging us to “work together hand in hand,” is not just a call to action; it is a reminder of the interconnectedness of all human endeavors. Science, the song suggests, is not merely a pursuit of knowledge but a collective act of faith in each other and in the systems we build together.
The dialogue between Katherine and John adds a dramatic tension that underscores the fragility and bravery inherent in exploration. John’s trust in Katherine’s calculations over the nascent technology of the time is emblematic of humanity’s reliance on one another in moments of uncertainty. This interplay reflects the timeless dance between intuition and reason, between the machine and the human hand that guides it.
Musically, the band channels influences as diverse as Kate Bush, M83, and Queen, resulting in a soundscape that is at once nostalgic and forward-looking. The blending of dream pop, shoegaze, and pop-rock creates an auditory experience that feels vast and multidimensional. Roberto Tiranti’s production is meticulous, with each instrument serving a precise purpose, from the soaring synth lines that mimic the vastness of space to the grounded percussion that anchors the piece.
Hidden Figures is more than a tribute to Katherine Johnson and John Glenn; it is an exploration of the often-overlooked symbiosis between the logical and the emotional. It challenges listeners to consider the stories behind the numbers, the humanity behind the data, and the courage it takes to trust and be trusted. There is a sense of reverence in every note and lyric, as if the song itself seeks to honor not only its subjects but the very act of creation.
Ultimately, Hidden Figures feels timeless, a work that transcends its moment while remaining deeply rooted in the specifics of its inspiration. It reminds us that the paths we chart – whether through space, history, or music – are illuminated not just by stars or calculations but by the collective dreams and efforts of those who dare to look beyond the horizon. It is a rare and poignant offering, one that lingers long after the final note, urging reflection and leaving us with a sense of awe at the beauty of what humanity can achieve together.
We have added the opus to our New Music Spotlight playlist, and our TIMELESS playlist, whilst we continue to stream the wider discography of Andrea Pizzo and the Purple Mice, including The Machine.