Ian Roland has found a formula that works for him and this track is a textbook example. I find it hard to describe Roland's style other than contemporary folk; it's like exhaling - contentment, peace. The twelve-string guitar is the first distinctive sound that makes it an obvious Roland song; coupled with those smooth, breathy vibrato vocals, singing lyrics that explore the relationship between humanity and nature. Can we live in harmony with those around us and our environment without anything or anyone being damaged? An appropriate sentiment, particularly as we are bombarded with images of atrocities around the world that fill us with frustration at our limited capacity to intervene. As always, the song builds from a gentle beginning and gradually layers up with further instruments - beautiful piano adding an extra element alongside the guitar, then Dave Coomber's expert bass brings the variation the arrangement needs to help it breathe. Punctuated with gentle breaks, highlighted by vocal oohs, the song pushes and pulls in just the right way to keep the listener engaged throughout.
Listen to Some way of life and other new songs on our New Music Playlist: