The art of music serves as a vessel for our innermost emotions, allowing us to express and encapsulate our most profound musings. This truth resonates deeply with the gifted vocalist and lyricist Susan Darvishi, whose recent EP, Mockingbird, serves as proof of her unparalleled command of this medium.
Mockingbird showcases a seamless blend of American pop and Iranian inspirations, encompassing five captivating songs that guide listeners through the highs and lows of existence and romance. Every track within this collection serves as a distinct manifestation of Susan’s imaginative outlook, interwoven with her individual encounters and viewpoints.
Take “Baroon,” for instance, a beautifully nostalgic ballad that explores the pain of separation and longing. With its blend of classical and traditional Iranian elements, the song evokes the image of rain as a metaphor for sadness and longing. Through her soulful vocals, Susan captures the essence of two lovers who are oceans apart yet still deeply connected by their memories and emotions.
In “Favorite Vice,” Susan delves into the complexities of relationships built on unhealthy dependencies. Her poignant verses and contemplative tunes portray the alluring pitfall of seeking happiness externally rather than discovering it within. She said, “During the creation of this song, we aimed for a nostalgic atmosphere that blends yearning, introspection, and acceptance. It captures the internal dialogue we engage in when we realize that our desires may ultimately hinder us, much like any other commonplace temptation.”
Meanwhile, the title track, “Mockingbird,” showcases Susan’s mastery as she seamlessly blends gentle jazz elements with an invigorating and powerful rock chorus, creating a true masterpiece that captivates listeners. Through her soaring vocals and powerful instrumentation, she captures the full range of emotions, from pain and longing to anger and rejection. The accompanying music video, which Susan wrote and produced herself, is a visual feast that brings the song’s themes to life in stunning detail.
Through her song “Princess of Persia,” Susan offers homage to the courageous women of Iran who persevere in their fight for rights despite challenging circumstances. The track resonates with an inspiring melody and empowering lyrics, serving as a guiding light of hope and resilience for individuals grappling with expressing themselves in a society that frequently suppresses their voices.
Finally, “Rewind” is a fitting conclusion to the EP, showcasing Susan’s talent for crafting catchy pop anthems with a message. One of the lines in this song, “If you can’t change, then I’ll just go erase ya,” portrays the ‘independent vibe’ Susan is creating for all the bossy ladies out there. Through its upbeat melody and empowering lyrics, the song celebrates the power of self-worth and reminds us that we all have the strength to stand up for ourselves and chase our dreams.
With Mockingbird, Susan Darvishi has once again proven herself to be a master of the craft, blending different cultures and emotions into a seamless and powerful whole.
Whether you’re a fan of pop music, Iranian culture, or simply great storytelling, this EP is not to be missed.
So be sure not to miss it on Spotify or YouTube, and let Susan’s enchanting melodies take you to a world of emotions and experiences beyond your imagination.