B-Side Guys

Meli Levi’s “Close to You” emerges as a gentle ripple in the tumultuous sea of modern life. This track from their EP “All Things May Be” showcases Levi’s evolution from classically-trained chorister to indie-rock troubadour, infused with the wisdom gained from their five-year spiritual sabbatical.

The song’s structure mirrors the cyclical nature of days and relationships, opening with the gentle optimism of dawn and progressing through the rhythms of daily life. Levi’s lyrics paint vivid snapshots: “Pull the blinds up / Let the sun in / And the day begins,” creating a sense of intimacy that invites listeners into their world. The refrain “I just wanna be close to you” serves as an anchor, a mantra-like reminder of the song’s core longing.

Musically, “Close to You” balances on the edge between 1980s new wave nostalgia and contemporary indie-rock grittiness. The production, helmed by Levi at Boxer Lodge Studios, maintains an organic feel while layering subtle complexities. This approach reflects Levi’s stated goal of creating music with transformative power, each element carefully placed to evoke emotional resonance.

Levi’s vocals are the standout feature, carrying the emotional weight of the lyrics with a warmth that belies the song’s origins in conflict. The bridge, “When we’re out of reach / From all the arguing,” offers a moment of raw vulnerability, highlighting Levi’s ability to find universal truth in personal experience. This section, in particular, demonstrates the influence of their meditation studies, advocating for mindfulness in the face of relationship struggles.

“Close to You” serves as both a standalone single and a microcosm of Levi’s artistic ethos. It’s a song that acknowledges the chaos of the world – “Watch the news break / While my heart aches” – while insisting on the primacy of human connection. In doing so, Levi offers not just a song, but a gentle reminder to listeners to pause, breathe, and reconnect with what truly matters amidst the daily grind.