Seraya Young ~ Arcturus: A Music Review

Arcturus is the keeper of the Bear, in Greek mythology, with the Bears being Ursa Major and Minor; it is also the brightest star in the northern celestial hemisphere.

What a great title for this extended play from Seraya, as her work always has that celestial feel about it.

With five tracks on this work, all interwoven in some way or other, Seraya continues her musical journey to who knows where, but we are always invited along on this sojourn.

The opening and title track, Arcturus, is so gentle and easy on the ear, but listen carefully for those references to racism, greed and more which are slipped into the song so cleverly. There’s always more to Seraya’s songs than one hears on first listening and it is this depth that sets her apart as a singer/songwriter.

Dreamtime stories has that all Australian element to it even though it is an ode to Seraya’s Father; the reference to the young turtles swimming off but returning later is so meaningful and personal. The use of a very gentle bit of bass in the background adds to this whole feeling that pervades this song.

There’s far more to write re these tracks, but it really is time that you, the reader, discovered ARCTURUS for yourselves and take and make your own journey with Seraya. To hear her songs in the manner meant, imagine you are out bush, no one else is around and then this ethereal music starts drifting your way. Inhale it and bask in it and for a surprise number, beautifully re-crafted, take a listen to Norman ‘Hurricane’ Smith’s song, Don’t Let It Die, that after some 50 years is still as relevant today as when it was written. Hopefully, Seraya’s version will give this song the new lease of life it deserves.

Tony Bates

Uncut and Unsigned

3mdr.com