ODESZA

ft. Naomi Wild

“Higher Ground”

(Single Review)

“Ain’t no surprise that I can’t sleep tonight. My only vice is standing by your side.”

Photo Credit: Tonje Thilesen (2017)

Higher Ground is the new track from American Electronic music duo, ODESZA. In the wonderful age of the internet and technological advancements, from time to time things can go pear shaped and alas it did when Higher Ground was leaked unexpectedly. This forced ODESZA to release Higher Ground surprisingly quickly on the back of the leaked version. I’m sure their fans were not complaining in the slightest though! The song comes as the fifth single off their new and highly anticipated album A Moment Apart, due for release on September 8^th. Higher Ground features the angelic voice of American singer/songwriter Naomi Wild, a great addition to the track’s RnB, out of this world urban-electric feel.

The duo will smash their way down under the week following the album release for their whirlwind world tour, seeing them play in Melbourne, Sydney and Auckland only. This didn’t stop fans from selling out their first Sydney show, snapping up tickets quickly for the second. This comes as no surprise, as the unexpected release of Higher Ground has sparked the interest and love of many, including mine. The three and a half minute track is quirky, light hearted and fun despite the heavy but catchy, modern love song type lyrics that encapsulate the signature ODESZA sweeping, eclectic synths and thumping, percussion-heavy melody.

“So won’t you love me better? I’m waiting here, I need you now. Gravity can’t hold us down, so just take me there to higher ground. Save me, I’m holding onto you. My sun is fading, I’m falling into blue. Why don’t you save me? My blood is running cold, so lift me up and get me to higher ground.”

Higher Ground is an absolute banger and just another hit ODESZA can add to their collection. If Higher Ground is anything to go by, I would dare say A Moment Apart is going to be a crowd-pleasing hit for the ODESZA fans old and new, and might just attract some new ODESZA lovers to the mix with their experimental flare and mature sound.