Harry Kidd “Sirens” Single Review
By Niamh Chetham Browne
Just before Christmas last year, 21-year-old singer songwriter Harry Kidd gave the world a present of his own creation when he blessed us with his first ever single ‘Sirens’.
The song immerses listeners in its vivid imagery about the fear of unrequited love and has already tracked quite a bit of attention, reaching a high number of plays across all streaming platforms. Sirens pulls you into a warm yet chilling story about the almost drowning feeling of having a crush, when professing one’s feelings could either lead you to sink or swim. Harrys heartfelt and vulnerable lyrics set against a score of tender vocals and comforting instrumentals, reflects the bittersweet prospects of having your romantic feelings reciprocated.
The ultimate fear of rejection can be scary to navigate especially when jumping in the deep end, yet it is that tinge of hope that is so best found in Harry’s song as he sings of the instinctive call to know someone. The sirens call, even though it beckons with it scary and unfamiliar territory, soothes listeners in his easy listening melody. Harrys multiple cultural references to Greek mythology and literature, mirror the songs own tragedy as he describes his own doubts and insecurities that come with putting one’s heart out in the open. Yet it is that slight hope of having those feelings reflected back to you that makes the fear almost worth the pain.
Coming along way from playing on stage in high school, Harry has proven himself a well-seasoned performer compiling a gig history that spans across a diverse range of scenes in Meanjin. He is no stranger from playing large iconic venues such as The Triffid, to then becoming well accustomed to the coolest grungy spots at The End Bar, The Bearded Lady, Greaser and Tomcat, any young musicians dream. The consistent contribution to the local music scene, can be seen in his participation in Valley Fiesta in 2020 and most recently Brisbane City Councils Live and Local program. Performing on Brunswick St Mall, the free community driven gig saw him collaborate with another Brisbane gem Emma Sheppard from the band Sheppard, to even being featured in the Courier Mail.
His versatility is a testament to his warm manner and likeability which makes his easy listening music appealing to a diverse range of people. While Sirens might be his first single, Harry proves himself to be what many newcomers to the game can only hope to achieve and that is a confident and highly experienced entertainer.
The natural conclusion to a documentation of such pure and wholesome talent, is a swift and upward trajectory and already this much can be said for Harry. Since his first single launch the up-and-coming artist has seen a release of a music video to match. Directed by another local creative Samuel Neil, the video which first premiered on March 12th, likens itself to the personification of his sound, a peaceful walk through a beautiful neighbourhood nearing sunset.
Much like Harrys stripped back instrumentals and melodic voice, the video is a perfect illustration of the song Sirens. The simple yet highly effective style of video, can be seen to mirror that of The Verve’s ‘Bittersweet Symphony’ minus the bustling city. Instead, Sam match’s the aesthetic to the style of song Sirens is, drawing attention to Harry and his guitar craftmanship by situating him front and centre against a tranquil and poignant backdrop.
Working throughout and in close collaboration with the Brisbane community, Harry galvanises himself as a humble and down to earth artist. Truly a unique musician who is said to pride himself on creating meaningful and heartfelt work, this is a testament to his widespread likeability and appeal to a range of audiences. You can stream his single on all music platforms and watch his new music video on Youtube, give some love to this wildly talented artist, who without fail reflects this love back to his community.