Synth Single Review: "Owner of a Lonely Heart - Synthwave Remix" by Nightboat

by Karl Magi

Nightboat’s remix of Yes' "Owner of a Lonely Heart" breathes into existence with a hint of static hiss and a flourish of big '80s drums slowly growing into a beat below a guitar bathed in dazzling hues.

An overwhelming synthwave drive supports Jon Anderson’s striking vocal performance, digital-sounding notes tripping with ragged edges before the growling guitar slices as Jon Anderson’s vocals echo above the crushing underlayer.

The chugging muscle of the retrowave drums and giant bass gives shattering strength to the original music. Circling arpeggios contribute a soft gleam before the raging guitar line rips hard above the hard-hitting low end pulsation.

Unstoppable synthwave power balances the original vocals with shadowy portent in a way I find deeply ear-pleasing. Snapping snare drums kick with the pounding foundation, leaping forward onto the open road as the original vocals climb passionately and the kick drum joins irradiating synth before the song stops.

Our narrator points out that each choice we make and every action we take shapes who we are. Instead of letting the pain of the past stop us from moving on, we ought to chase what we desire. He tells us that loneliness isn't permanent but it is a state of mind in which we can gain self-knowledge and independence.