Synth Single Review: “Talk To Me” by Beckett

by Karl Magi

Beckett’s “Talk To Me” explores the need to reveal old secrets and clear the air. The song opens as soothing notes drift ethereally, creating a hushed fragility. Sharper sounds shiver in the distance as the tentatively brushing notes slow and the bass adds an electric crackle. The drums rush on while the scintillating synth exudes calming light and the bass pulse rumbles.

After orchestral hits, Beckett’s compellingly silky voice wraps around my ears and carries me into the song. Soulful strength erupts from the vocals as they explore the feelings within the lyrics. Another orchestra hit bursts as the chorus shines with dynamic agility, the rhythm pounding with excitement.

Brassy sounds add more radiance as chimes levitate delicately and the vocals slip with velvety grace. The underlayer drives forward as Beckett’s fervently burning voice captures all of the song’s sensations. The drums flourish and the chorus flashes with fire, driven by the throbbing underpinnings.

Luca Ricardo’s guitar leaps and flies, charging into a solo that pours out unadulterated power and yearning. Beckett’s lustrous, liquid voice blends with the blues-inflected guitar while the funky groove locks in with bending tones. As the song ends, Beckett’s vocals mingle with Luca Ricardo’s crying guitar, deepening the emotion.

It’s a mystery to the narrator that the song’s subject never thought about him until he came back. He adds that “it ain’t what it used to be—this town is 30 years down the track.” He isn’t here to reminisce because “I left when I did and only got one regret.” It’s getting late and he has his next connection. “In this dead-end town, you’re the only thing I can’t forget,” which makes him wonder if that’s why he returned.

He’s been waiting for the other person to speak their mind. “I’m back, I’m here, but not for long, so say what you’ve been holding on.” He wants to see the song’s subject one final time, reminding them, “Don’t you remember it was them who told me to go?” He insists they talk to him, as it may be the last chance to clear the facts. There are “secrets on every face,” and he isn’t home anymore and won’t be coming back.

“I need to know the truth. They covered it up, told me I should let you be,” he says of those who hid the other person away. He concludes, “I never understood why they said you had to leave. I now know—another lie.”