Bryony Sier - Platform 8

Bryony Sier refuses to be objectified, embracing the journey through the determined folk-pop musings of “Platform 8.” Lyrics rest right at the center of the whole thing. Gentle strums give the song an openness. Her voice conveys honesty to the listener as she confesses what it means to find one’s path. Vocals have a honeyed quality, somewhat sarcastic at times, featuring a slightly wry sense of humor that helps to highlight the message. In the background, the rest of the group does great work in emphasizing the mood, from the electric guitar to the understated, consistent drum hit. Everything simply works wonders together, as the interplay is spirited. Production-wise, the track possesses this curious intimacy. One can virtually feel the physical presence of Sier and the rest of her group behind her, as there’s an approachable quality to the entire execution, akin to a conversation catching up with an old friend.

Stylistically, she taps into the rich history of female singers who have made their own way. Referencing Dolly Parton in the verses, it makes sense that she’d name-check a singer who put out a song so empowering as “9 To 5” decades ago, highlighting gender inequality. For the nods to ‘90s mainstays like Lilith Phair and Fiona Apple, the alternative attributes of following one’s own path are abundantly clear. Phair serves on the soothing yet independently minded attribute that the piece goes for, from the understated bliss of the guitar to the easygoing, pastoral rhythms that loosely frame the limber arrangement. Apple works on the other end of the spectrum, as there’s a clear, unavoidable spirit of defiance, of taking the path less traveled, that feels outright liberating. While these are certainly reference points, Sier does a great job of making the atmosphere feel truly unique to her worldview.

The bright and airy opening sets the tone for what follows. Everything about the verses focuses on the optimism of bucking expectations. She is happy to avoid the usual traditional path. Instead, she chooses something that stays true to herself. Keeping things to the essentials, the arrangement keeps things deceptively simple. With the rest of the group revolving around her, Sier’s message becomes crystal clear. Guitar work gets woven together in this kaleidoscopic array of colors. By the time it reaches the finale, she’s gone full circle, committed to where she is headed.

“Platform 8” features Bryony Sier’s empowering message for those searching for personal meaning.