As inspired and introspective as any talented troubadour can be, what Ian Janco has to offer is noteworthy; the indie-act has taken up the role of a singer-songwriter to be authentic about his varied emotions that materialize in the course of life. In his latest EP "Reverie," the singer puts a strong emphasis on often unspoken but utterly significant themes such as loneliness and angst in a package of six, well-crafted tunes that got us engaged in writing down our thoughts about it.
Having begun the musical journey in 2017, Ian's discography is filled with various records that also deserve attention: in his debut single "Life," the feelgood construction of the song is made memorable by the romantic vocals and summery groove (over 600,000 listeners have streamed it since release on Spotify). Fast forward to 2022, "Something New" is a bittersweet number, elevated by the melancholic strings in the chorus and the heartbroken, riveting rendition.
Elaborating more about "Reverie," Ian discloses how the EP has intercontinental origins; having commenced on the project after a departure from London to finishing it in his hometown of Hailey, Idaho. He channeled the pent-up turmoil from the hectic routine of city-dwelling, which frequently led him to escape the monotony of every day through daydreaming (thus inspiring him to christen the EP fittingly). This particular compilation is the follow-up addition to an ongoing series, which began with his previous EP "Rapture" (2022).
"Reverie" begins on a serene note (a consistent quality throughout this body of work) with "Close Your Eyes," as the vocals muse about the life lived so far and speculating where 'home' actually is. The composition has a gentle caress with the radiating guitars, as the songwriting reassures a troubled someone that the existential solitariness shall pass eventually. Wandering into the sophomore song "Letter To Myself," the vocalist embraces his vulnerabilities and the human flaws that sometimes hold him back; addressing a lover, the chorus beautifully resonates with the wisdom that life imparts and turns one stronger and renewed ("I'm not crying, I learned throughout the years"). "Open Door" takes a more reflective stance, talking about how the plaintive and rigorous schedule of city life can be emotionally draining, as the singer imagines various 'what-ifs' and other fulfilling lives (ranging from an adventurous sailor to a brave hero) in a lively performance. The instrumental also takes an up-tempo route with the arrangements, including a diverse range of harmonic elements like trumpet, piano, and guitar.
Midway through the EP, "Seraphim Eyes" has a tender moment with the sentimental chord progression, carried by a swift percussion set and heartfelt vocals mourning the loss of his loved ones. Right after, "You Tonight" extends on the theme of heartbreak, as its main chorus dwells on the loneliness of the soul and yearning not to be alone ("Oh I just need someone like you tonight"). Here the ensemble captures a pleasant vibe with the delicate rhythm from the drums, including mellow guitars and strings. For the finishing act, "Golden Light" switches the mood with an optimistic and jolly groove due to the playful instruments and tribal drums, coupled with excited vocals that look forward to finally finding inner peace after suffering through hopelessness.
Listen to "Reverie" on Spotify and stay tuned with Ian Janco to know more about the upcoming releases on Instagram.
You can also listen and purchase the EP on Bandcamp below (25% of all proceeds from the EP sales will go to mental health charities)
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