Daniel Blake is an Arizona native turned California singer/songwriter who cut his teeth in the clubs and coffeeshops of the thriving Los Angeles music scene. In 2018 he caught the ear of famed producer and engineer Bill Lefler (Dashboard Confessional, Josh Radin, Gym Class Heroes). Blake’s debut EP “Circle Mountain” soon followed. Since its release Daniel has had a string of successes with song placements on shows for MTV, NBC the CW and more.
“Jakarta” is the title track and first single from Daniel’s latest EP. Released worldwide to all major streaming services on April 2, 2021, the song and EP take their names from Jakarta, Indonesia. One of the city’s more dubious honors is in holding the title of ‘world’s fastest sinking city.’ In the song, Blake uses the city as metaphor for the rapidly declining state of a romantic relationship.
The single “Jakarta” opens with a shuffling beat and a cool, thumping, rhythmic acoustic guitar riff. The two together create the heartbeat of this beautiful and melancholy tune. Ethereal electric guitars and sparse piano chords paint the edges of the mix as a wide reverb expands the horizon. As the song progresses the drums and bass turn the shuffle up to a simmer, but the track never loses its mellow vibe. Daniel’s soft harmonies and smooth falsetto bring to mind the lonely genius of the late great Elliot Smith. It’s a beautiful sound.
Check out the entire “Jakarta” EP below. You can also hear the title track on the Deep Indie Dive and Deep Indie Songwriters playlists. Follow the links below to connect with Daniel Blake. Get on his socials and get in the loop on all of his current and future projects.
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Daniel Blake on the Deep Indie playlists
