Flash Single Review: Little River Runs - Tiptoe Giants and Josh Pyke

"Little River Runs" is the fabulous new single from Tiptoe Giants who have collaborated with Josh Pyke to create this highly melodic celebration of the Earth in all its magical splendour. I have to say, this is a truly wonderful collaboration largely due to the unique vocal blend which is quite superb. If this song is anything to go by, I'm sure their new album due out later this month will be pretty special. 

The little river takes centre stage on this musical journey, culminating in its majestic merger with the sea. Meanwhile, the splendid sights surrounding the river are each described in sumptuous details as the song progresses. There is a cumulative effect here, where the lyrics serve to build on each of the previous verses, adding additional sights, giving the song its folky sing round the camp fire vibe. The images used are so exquisitely potent that they could easily be featured in the pages of a popular picture book for children.

The music begins quite simply with a flute and acoustic guitar, before being joined by a hypnotic bass, additional intensity as the song progresses. The instrumentation is superb throughout, with a nimble acoustic guitar taking centre stage amongst an array of instruments that merge together and delight the senses with their sweet and soulful blend.

This unique approach, enables the listener to delight in the musical dexterity of the song, as the story unfolds, revealing the miraculous beauty of nature celebrated in all its glory. As the descriptive verse becomes more complex, so does the music where additional harmonies are included, giving the song an almost gospel feel. The music ultimately reaches its climax through a clever musical refrain which returns to the 'valley below' for a final review of all the wonderful sights so eloquently described throughout.

There is also an interesting sense of connection revealed here, whether it is the raindrops that ultimately merge with the river, or the lorikeet that sings from the tree, the lyrics perhaps hint at how we are all connected and ultimately depend on each other for our survival. I'm sure this song would be very popular in schools, not just as a fun singalong, but perhaps also to describe the way nature is interdependent, and perhaps shine some light on subjects such as the water cycle.

An absolute masterpiece, where what initially sounds like a jaunty singalong reveals itself to be so much more. The lyrics provide the images that trigger the imagination, and the sensitivity and depth of the vocal delivery provide a deep rooted connection for the listener to easily engage with the song. The music is sprightly and highly melodic and makes the most of the scintillating harmonies on display. The listener can delight in the wonders of nature through the majesty of the descriptive verse and the sublime melody that surrounds. Intoxicating, imaginative and guaranteed to stir the senses. I highly recommend it.

Tiptoe Giants and Josh Pyke - musical perfection.