de clair toys with restless emotion in "peace of mind"

Taken from her upcoming debut EP and co-written with celebrated writer/producer Jonny Coffer, it is an honest and subtly emotive track. From the initial bare strummed guitar chords to the distant nostalgic piano lines that weave and wend throughout, de clair’s earnest vocals ground her in a world of sonic minimalism and sensitive reflection.

Yearning for some freedom away from the chaos of the modern world is a common sentiment for many and the search for such tranquillity is integral to “Peace of Mind,” as exemplified by the evocative folk-esque vocal harmonies and stripped-back instrumental effects. Furthermore, through the thoughtful poeticism of lyric, de clair succeeds in administering a sonic balm for the whirring mind. A momentary respite for anyone feeling particularly frantic or anxious.

Inspired by themes around mental health, the 25-year-old singer-songwriter explains, “I was imagining a person who never seems to get peace of mind. Who have been suffering from anxiety and bad luck all their life. I believe the injustice that is caused by genetics and conditions of life are very sad and frustrating.” Furthermore, “there are so many people who deserve so much more, but never seem to be able to get out of their (almost predetermined) vicious circle. I wrote this song for them. I hope that whoever listens can get peace of mind with it.”

Delving into the intricacies of the subject matter, de clair uses her powerful lyrical voice to address such issues. An especially poignant moment is that of the first verse: “What if it’s hereditary, What if it’s already in me, What if it’s genetic, What if it’s unapologetic.” This section strikes upon the confusion of mental health conditions and the generational impact they may have had, not to mention the constant negative loop that an internal monologue may cause that so many have to put up with.

As with all aspects of this track, it is simple but effective and profound, a perfect encapsulation of what we can expect to come from this exciting young talent.