Formed in 2023, Brighton-based SoftTop is a 7-piece band with big ambitions. They are currently releasing singles in the build-up to their upcoming concept album, which the band says has central themes of life, death, and the uncertain space in between. As the album’s narrative unfolds, we follow a character left comatose after being hit by a car on the way to a house party. Sounds like pretty heavy stuff!
New single ‘Paving Stones’ is the second release in the build-up to the album, and it’s a sensory overload right from the start. An infectiously groovy bass line, swooping cellos, and an electric piano. Layers upon layers. Nice!
When Miles Goodall’s vocal arrives, it has a beautifully silky tone and a rich, expressive cadence. The best way I can explain it is that it’s like a cooler, funkier version of Rufus Wainwright. The melody hits perfectly – unfolding with a spellbinding flair. The lyrics lay down the beginnings of the alarming story to be told in the album:
“‘Careful when you walk along the pavement’ he said so seriously
If you fall between the cracks and there’s something bad
Then don’t come crying to me.”
Handcrafted and soulful, this feels way bigger than the sum of its parts. It’s beautifully realised, and feels like the band has stepped straight out of a time machine, bringing with them a warm 70s-infused sound. It has so much to offer – take your pick from soft-rock, prog-rock, chamber-pop, jazz, funk – it’s all here! Strings and woodwinds give the track real depth and body, delivering an authentic analogue tour de force.
The final section breaks into a mellow jam, further showcasing the band’s effortless musicality.
‘Paving Stones’ feels like a lost classic from a bygone era – an evolving story, a sound dripping with honey, and layers of gorgeous melodic details.
I can’t wait for that album!
