I had the pleasure of listening to “Sleepless” by haunting images, a three-piece alternative rock and emo band based in Louth, Ireland, and from the opening moments, I was transfixed. This track carries a sense of nostalgia, similar to the feeling of finishing a semester and the anticipation of summer, when everyone is walking out of school, waiting for an escape. The single is the band’s second release in the lead-up to their forthcoming album.
Throughout the track, haunted images capture the feeling of longing. Describing the way sleep is used as an escape, this song itself feels like an escape for the listener. “Sleepless” explores the space between consciousness and dreams, where reality begins to blur, and the mind struggles to rest. The imagery pulls the listener deeper into a state of vulnerability, creating a sense of intimacy with the listener. Through its instrumentals and lyrics, the band conveys the surreal nature of the prolonged wakefulness we all experience. “Feels so empty, feel no sympathy for you” is the line that stood out the most. The track is hazy and unique, something that is reminiscent of a band that would be depicted in 2000s films of an alternative band.
Their songwriting feels raw and effective from beginning to end. They leave you wanting more once the song comes to a close. “Maybe we could be in the middle of the night,” is also another lyric that stood out to me. The feeling of nostalgia from the opening is one that many artists struggle to replicate, yet haunted images managed to do just that. I’m enthralled by their work; it’s a track that stays with you long after it ends.
Take a listen to “Sleepless” below.
Written by Anthony Perez
