Joe Hicks – Mirror Mirror
“An excellent, smooth track which you listen in one breath! Positive vibrations and clear perception of sound in general. Harmonious, fresh and tasteful result. Beautifully performed music, created by real professionals!”
“Отличный, ровный трек, который слушается на одном дыхании! Позитивные вибрации, очень лёгкое восприятие звука в целом, настолько всё гармонично, свежо и сделано со вкусом! Прекрасно исполненная и созданная профессионалами музыка!”
-Nagamag.com
With over 2.5 million Spotify streams rising singer-songwriter Joe Hicks returns with his new single ‘Mirror Mirror’ – the first instalment from his upcoming debut album out later this year.
Initially when Joe started writing new music back in 2020, he was intending to release another EP, but with some persistent encouragement from producer Sam Winfield (Amber Run, Fickle Friends, Robin Trower, Only Sun), he soon gave into the challenge of writing his first full-length album, despite how daunting the commitment felt.
In the past Joe has noted that if an idea didn’t quite fit ‘his sound’ he would often move on from it, never exploring the idea any further, however with ‘Mirror Mirror’ this was not the case. The single’s rocky intro riff was one of these ideas, but rather than shoot it down Joe was intrigued to see what could come of it. “Once I started singing over it, I didn’t stop until I had the whole thing mapped out melodically, and I’m so glad I did as it’s one of my favourite songs on the album.”
“Lyrically it’s about reassurance. It’s about when you’re feeling beaten down by the world, acknowledging your fears and giving yourself a damn good talking to in the mirror. Figuring it all out.” After not being able to play live for over a year, Joe was given a lot of time to think, and also overthink. “I don’t think I’m a big worrier, but when you’ve chosen a somewhat fragile career like music you get a lot of opportunities to wonder where it’s all going. This song is about one of those moments.”
Showcasing Joe’s stunning guitar textures alongside the brilliance of Ed Broad’s drumming technique, ‘Mirror Mirror’ feels optimistic. The track’s somewhat sombre dwellings presenting themselves as assured, melodic displays despite the introspection of its narrative. A soundtrack many could adopt, ‘Mirror Mirror’ makes light of the scrutiny we can all be guilty of putting ourselves under and there’s a comfort to be had from that.
Raised in the rural market town of Newbury; Joe Hicks blends pop, blues and folk influences, combining intricate guitar composition with classic pop song-craft. Having made a name for himself as a session guitarist, Hicks released his first solo single at the start of 2017. Soon after he was made 'BBC Introducing Artist of the Week’, receiving extensive radio play across the U.K and also a CLASH ’Track of the Day’ feature. Since then he’s built up a sizeable online following (+2.5 million Spotify Streams) helped on by extensive support from BBC Introducing and touring the UK and Europe, including appearances at CarFest, The Big Feastival, Are You Listening? Festival, Pub in the Park, over 30 Sofar Sounds shows and slots supporting Sam Fender, James Walsh and Starsailor.
Reviewed by Nagamag on April 2, 2022