Scarypoolparty, the stage name of singer-songwriter Alejandro Aranda, has dropped an intimate new single, “Friends.” It’s impossible to predict what Scarypoolparty will do next in terms of style, but on this track, the musician shows off his gentle, yet powerful vocal ability and borderline unbelievable instrumental talent while exploring themes of nostalgia and giving an honest look into the reality of romantic connection.
The deeply personal song was first announced on Twitter and dives into the insecurities of establishing a special connection in a new relationship. Aranda has never been afraid to be vulnerable in his lyrics, and “Friends” is no exception. You can feel the dynamic performer’s nervous energy through his tenor voice, but equally through his lyrics such as, “I can find my way back home/Intoxicated by the love you’ve shown/But I worry about the future/Every time you see me struggling somehow.”
“‘Friends’ is a lighthearted song about being in the talking stage of a relationship and not knowing exactly how to say what you mean,” Aranda says of the new track. “It’s also a song that I self-produced and played everything on. I wanted it to be an honest expression in music.”
Read more: Bad Suns share sunny new single “Heaven is a Place in My Head”–listen
His last EP, Los Angeles, featured a host of “fun, wild piano arpeggios and 808s,” but fans will recognize the smooth acoustic tonality he’s known for. Gentle guitar overlays and smooth piano melodies are more reminiscent of his earlier songs such as “10 Years.” Aranda will also embark on his first post-pandemic tour starting June 4. The Acoustic Tour is a 16-show special featuring stripped-down versions of some of his greatest hits. In addition to the tour, he’s also set to perform at San Francisco’s Outside Lands on Halloween.
The longevity of Scarypoolparty’s musical ambition is unquestionable. While quarantine has sewn widespread uncertainty, the artist sees it as more of an opportunity to look back at his musical style. “The past year has been a time of reflection for me,” Aranda says. “It’s been a chance to strip everything back and figure out who I really am and what I really want to say.”
Read more: NOAHFINNCE and Doll Skin pay homage to YUNGBLUD in “Parents” remake-watch
To say Aranda is a renaissance artist is an understatement. His influences range from classical composers such as Bach to more contemporary artists such as Frank Zappa. His incredible finger-picking guitar on American Idol earned him a hug from judge Lionel Richie and he’s such a master shredder on piano that he dropped a 51-minute improv video via his YouTube channel. If “Friends” is a good example of how emotionally candid his next album will be, then fans have a lot to look forward to.
Scarypoolparty’s devotion to his fans is evident. With a nonchalant demeanor and authentic disposition, Aranda’s songs feel like a deep, sincere confession that attracts listeners of all backgrounds and preferences. “Friends” not only perfectly encapsulates Aranda’s euphonic prowess, but also his general demeanor: deep, personal, and all-around sublime.
You can listen to Scarypoolparty’s “Friends” below. Let us know your thoughts in the comments!
Scarypoolparty’s The Acoustic Tour Dates:
06/04 – Tempe, AZ @ Marquee
06/08 – Dallas, TX @ House of Blues
06/09 – Houston, TX @ House of Blues
06/11 – Atlanta, GA @ Coca-Cola Roxy
06/12 – Birmingham, AL @ Avondale Brewing
06/13 – Nashville, TN (2 shows) @ The Basement East
06/14 – Memphis, TN @ Graceland
06/17 – Boulder, CO @ Boulder Theater
06/18 – Boulder, CO @ Boulder Theater
06/19 – Fort Collins, CO @ Aggie Theater
06/20 – Fort Collins, CO @ Aggie Theater
Scarypoolparty’s “Friends” Lyrics:
In the circle of your friends
I would try and talk to them
But I’m socially awkward
I don’t wanna be the one to leave
I can find my way back home
Intoxicated by the love you’ve shown
But I’m worried for the future
Every time you see me struggling some how
We’ve been trying are best to keep from each other
It’s hard enough to be hurt and still be lovers
Do you do do you
Do you do you love me
Do you do do you
Do you do do you
Do you do you love me
Do you do do you
At the bus stop on Dudley Street
She held my hand and forgave me
But I’m holding on to my life
I don’t know if I’ll jump or swim
Like an ocean painted blue
100 swans and I think of you
Blending in with everybody
I don’t want to make this
Love fade away
We’ve been trying are best to keep from each other
It’s hard enough to be hurt and still be lovers
Do you do do you
Do you do you love me
Do you do do you
Do you do do you
Do you do you love me
Do you do do you
Do you do do you
Do you do you love me
Do you do do you