Sunnan – “I Need You”
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Sweden-based Sunnan send us in a spin with the super-catchy neo-soul track “I Need You.”
“I Need You” is one hell of a glossy track, built on solid grooves and classic songwriting and evoking that specific era of 1970s soul and Motown. We’re thinking Marvin Gaye or Sly and the Family Stone. But a stronger comparison would be arguably “Crazy” by Gnarls Barkley et al. But before we get to that, let’s talk about the opening. You are bombarded with sounds that feel as if they could be from Squid Game. It grabs your attention and adds a disorientating, unusual psychedelic edge to what is otherwise a good old-fashioned, radio-friendly banger.
Coming back to the comparisons to “Crazy,” there are a few similarities in the hip-hop beat and the funky bass, but also in the Ennio Morricone influences. “I Need You” has layers that evoke the spaghetti western soundtracks associated with Clint Eastwood. “Crazy” was also heavily inspired by the cinematic film scores of Morricone. So, if you haven’t already pressed play on “I Need You,” you would be correct in thinking of sweeping arrangements and a slight hint of drama, but this song is not moody or introspective… quite the opposite… and in no way is this composition an imitation. This is genuinely good music.
Vocally, this is where the song really shines. The performance feels like a Motown harmony group. Smooth, with undertones of gospel and an overwhelming sense that these guys are wearing their hearts on their sleeves. The performance brims with soul and sincerity.
On the track, Sunnan adds: “I Need You is a good hard look in the mirror. Reach into the spiritual dimension through your own reflection. In the tradition of northern soul desperation this song is a wakeup call, and a call for honesty in the face of yourself.”
“I Need You” is a welcome, refreshing blast of smooth, soulful, and comforting nostalgia. The track is taken from Sunnan’s second album Spaghetti Soul, releasing October 9th.
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