An over-worldly vibe mixed with nostalgic grunge elements from the ‘90s is what characterises the new song from folk-tinged rock star Leo Sawikin. Tapping into tunings inspired by Joni Mitchell with a distinctly Smashing Pumpkins-esque attitude, ‘Row Me Away’ is a daydream of a song which speaks to wanting to escape somewhere familiar, but simultaneously new.

‘Row Me Away’ is released on Friday 25th June 2021.

Speaking to a generation who are somewhat lost in the frenzy of modern living, Sawikin employs sounds which are both nostalgic and new to create a sense of yearning in his music. Comforting in its companionship, ‘Row Me Away’ is the sound of someone who draws on the past in order to forge a new path forward into the future, picking up techniques and inspiration from the late and greats such as Brian Wilson, Carole King, Burt Bacharach, and Jimmy Webb to bring about a truly unique sound in his own songwriting.

Speaking of the song, Leo says “I was trying to go for a very visual type of song when I wrote this. I wanted to evoke a feeling of blasting away from earth or from our universe in search of something brand new and entirely different.” Again, he speaks to this timeless notion, from the lyrics to the chord progression. “Using unique but familiar chord progressions like this is a great way to lay the groundwork for songs that feel nostalgic and brand new at the same time... when most people ‘row away’ somewhere, they’re not just looking for a new world, but ideally a place where the familiar is accessible.”

On 14th October, Leo Sawikin will release his debut solo album, Row Me Away. “It reflects this feeling that you’ve missed out on the best the world has to offer,” explains Leo. “It’s kind of like trying to figure out what you do after everything falls apart. The pandemic, which none of us expected, gives the songs more power. In the old world, we could distract ourselves with our day to day lives, but now we’re forced to stare down just how fragile everything is.”

Compelling, authentic and overwhelmingly relatable, Leo Sawikin is making music for those among us struggling with how the world sometimes looks - but gets up and carries on anyway.

‘Row Me Away’ is out on Friday 25th June 2021. Full length Row Me Away will be released 14th October 2021.