Each Measure Feature: The Post
FEATURE
The Post delivers a beautiful poem of a single with their latest release, Yellowstone. Like the tender first moment of sunrise, this song unwinds with ringing melodies piercing over a mournful backdrop and bringing light into all worlds, internal and out.
Guitar and cello aren’t an obvious combination, I think only once in my life I witnessed the unlikely duo at a very ill-attended student concert. But as empty as the room was at the time, I’ve been waiting to hear the combination ever since. The post delivers deliciously with layers of silky cello drones and delicate guitar plucking. The softness of the two instruments is a real transportive connection to music, the acoustic feel of a close-your-eyes intimate studio session. The duo explores different flavors within that same understated atmosphere, sometimes picking up to the muted thud of a kick, other times a soaring solo moment. In Yellowstone, the pastoral lyrics only heighten the sense of blissful nature, only more beautiful in contrast to its sinister surroundings.
Paired with fellow Aussie Alaisdar Henry’s haunting cello, guitarist and singer Esther Bertam’s lilting voice and beautiful writing take on an ethereal and cinematic effect. Directly inspired by the same-named TV series, the lyrics help paint the picture of the rural countryside, a land of mountains, dusty roads, the clatter of hoofs, and the burning drama of gunslinging ranchers.
Though the song slips by smoothly, focusing in on the lyrics, I’m touched by their skillful and artistic construction, my favorite line being “Shadows fall because they love that feeling.”. Verses mysteriously weave around the fabled “Yellowstone,” enigmatically treated both as a place at the edge of the horizon and the internal daybreak of surrender and peace.
It’s a strange coincidence that I heard this song while starting the TV series. Bertram’s unique personal interpretation is a wonderful testament to how creative forms can inspire each other to face the deeper questions. The compelling drama and beauty of the show will keep me watching, but it isn’t unmatched by The Post’s stunning single. I can only hope that someday the two might come together!
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