A spiritual entity calls to Derek Simpson in their latest mystical groove “Sofia” - (7/29/20)
Derek Simpson, Photo by Bryan Warner
Derek Simpson shares their latest single “Sofia,” available July 29th on Digital Formats via Trailing Twelve Records.
Earlier this year, Derek Simpson released their hypnotic slow jam “Hide + Seek” and within the same week debuted “bad_connection” - a free album and short film combining found footage with sampled material to provide commentary on humanity's relationship with technology. Today, Simpson returns with “Sofia”, a spiritual reflection packaged in irresistible nu-disco minimalism.
"Sofia" is a suprising first listen. It begins with a throbbing bassline, stark percussion, and softly spoken vocals - as if Simpson just waking from a dream. All of a sudden, infectious rhythm guitar and falsetto transform the groove into what feels like charmingly hazy fragment of disco’s golden age. Vocal contributions from dream-folk songstress Gracie Gray elevate and bring additional softness to the space.
To further contextualize, Simpson shared the following.
When I dream, Sofia calls me in. She speaks through intuition, bringing to light that which previously dwelled in the dark, cobwebbed corners of my unexplored psyche. I don't need to call her mine or pursue her, I'd rather remain receptive to her suggestion and appreciative of her timely visits. I get the sense that we have been entwined in this dance since the first moments of time and that we will continue in step together until the music's over.
“Sofia” is out July 29, 2020 on Trailing Twelve.
Take a listen to “Sofia” below.
Written by Derek Simpson (BMI) and Anna Grace Gray (ASCAP)
Performed by Derek Simpson and Gracie Grayz
Mixed by Derek Simpson
Mastered by Vincent Mazza
Press Photos By Bryan Warner
© & ℗ 2020 Trailing Twelve Records. All Rights Reserved. Unauthorized Copying, Reproduction, Hiring, Lending, Public Performance, And Broadcasting Strictly Prohibited.
DEREK SIMPSON - Sofia
TTRS-034
Released 29 July 2020
Length: 05:19
BIO
Derek Simpson is an American recording artist, producer, and multi-instrumentalist. After gaining success with multiple free album releases on Soundcloud (under the pseudonym Planetarian) from 2013 to 2016, Derek moved from Boston to Long Beach to continue recording his own music and surround himself with other up-and-coming artists in need of songwriting help and production. Layering spacey guitar chords and electric piano lines with dense and introspective wordplay, Derek's music often explores the value of holding a positive perspective in the face of confusion or adversity. His respect for focus and hard work shows in his recordings, all of which are fully written, produced, composed, and mixed by himself.
Derek has produced music for Kevin Abstract, Dom McLennon, Rockie Fresh and more. His music has also been featured in Comedy Central's Workaholics.