Half Moon Run Keep It Lush On "All At Once"
Musicians are facing some pretty tough times right now: the COVID-19 pandemic has taken away their ability to tour, which is typically the biggest source of revenue for smaller artists. It also detracts the connection artists can have with their fans at live shows or in interpersonal interactions, making for a divide in reaching out to their audiences.
For Canadian folk rockers Half Moon Run, the departure of band member Isaac Symonds could not have coincided with a worse situation. After being with the band for eight years, Symonds made the decision to leave the now-three piece, which was supported by his bandmates. “...there is no bad blood between the band members,” the group wrote in a heartfelt Instagram post. “We love and support Isaac, 100%, and we always will.”
The group has opted to continue onwards, releasing their first single as a new three-piece, “All At Once.” The song is one that is filled with heartache and a sense of loss (although we are sure that this is, indeed, purely coincidental -- don’t want to put words in the band’s mouth!). Sonically, “All At Once” is a hushed, folksy track that revolves around a delicate, acoustic guitar riff which builds up to include a soft drumline and stunning multi-layered vocals that have become a signature for the band. Each verse ends with “it’s all conflating all at once,” which is delivered in such an understated way that it seems to reflect a sense of numbness that comes with heartbreak. It conveys how overwhelming the inability to be with someone can feel, all of the helplessness and frustration and grief. “I still can’t take you home/I can’t be your man” lead singer Devon Portielje croons in the bridge, where the song reaches its emotional climax. “All At Once” is a beautifully lush track that will make you feel all the feels, especially if you’ve experienced unrequited or -- dare we say it -- forbidden love.
“All At Once” follows the band’s previous single “Grow Into Love,” both of which were recorded pre-quarantine and come off the band’s upcoming EP. While Half Moon Run were geared up for a slew of 2020 tour dates to promote the record, they have since postponed their shows due to the COVID-19 pandemic and plan on continuing spreading warmth and love through their music releases. Nonetheless, fans are still thrilled that the band is continuing despite Symonds’ departure, and we could not be happier to see what else they have in store for us this year. As Dansende Beren put it: “The public loves Half Moon Run, and that is mutual.” We couldn’t agree more!
