Dark Tropics - 'Keep Searching'

Dark Tropics set out a further example of their strong songwriting prowess with their third single ‘Keep Searching’.

The Belfast alt-pop duo have crafted a soulful grower of a song over a solid analogue base. It shows a different side to Rio and Gerard than the one they revealed with their last release ‘Moroccan Sun’.

With ‘Keep Searching’, the vintage sound means you’d be hard-pressed to place when the song was released if you didn’t know it was 2021. The intricacies of the instrumentation reveal themselves on repeated listens, with fine production from Orri Mc Brearty.

Rio’s pure vocals sing the delicate but honest refrain “keep searching / keep breathing”. In all, the track is an important message to keep going, no matter what is thrown at you, because if you’re meant to breakthrough, you will.

The beauty of the track is aided by the strings which come alive in verse two. Organised by multi-instrumentalist and Rowan frontman Dylan Howe, the strings feel sympathetic to the circumstance, without detracting from the vocals.

And the video, directed by Thomas McKeown, showcase’s Rio’s choreography skills. The short film features an interpretive dance about a troubled relationship, and continually seeking your true identity, filmed in a Belfast flat. The visuals have always remained integral to the world of Dark Tropics, and this is no exception.

Dark Tropics have the talent to do what they like, and I found ‘Keep Searching’ will get under your skin and won’t let go. More than darkness, they’re one of the brightest shining lights in Belfast’s exciting music scene.

Words by Samuel Draper

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