On any given weekend, Sean Covington probably stands in his church in Des Moines, Iowa, leading friends and family in song. Every corner of his life builds into his music, joining his varied influences like Dave Matthews Band and U2, to create a nostalgic take on musical Americana.
“Bells”, Covington’s first single in his musical career, brings a country flavor to a tale of reflection and discovery. Starting in a place of safety, he journeys through worry and trepidation before landing on a hopeful resolution—a well-timed message for Christmas 2020.
Worship, Americana, country, and holiday, Sean Covington holds us at a crossroads of tradition and modernity. His bending, gliding guitar chords open to the sonic equivalent of a rippling TV screen sending viewers back in time. As he sings, a river of wisdom and experience flows through his dulcet baritone delivery.
While the lyrics reference God, the singer-songwriter partners his text with a rich harmony, pushing closer to a James Taylor “Hymn” feel. The very subtle use of organ fills out the sonic space, bolstering the emotional guitar chords that take us through the anxious early moments of the piece through a joyous relief.
With such a joyous message, “Bells” could fit nicely on a Christmas playlist or on a June night.
Stream “Bells” below.
Ben is an advertising Madman who spends his days with words and music. When he’s not writing for his supper, he’s eating it at some of NYC’s most interesting restaurants.
