No matter how tumultuous your life is, New Year is said to be a golden time to turn over a new leaf. In the lead-up to the end of the year, three local artists have released inspirational tracks to let go of the past for a new beginning.
Bodyslam
Wan Sin Pee (New Year's Eve) is the first single from the eighth album by the rock band Bodyslam. It compares a couple's breakup to the end of the year. In the music video, a motorcyclist (Teeradon "James" Supapunpinyo) thinks of his ex-girlfriend (Wasu "Lex" Pluemsakulthai) while performing in a Wall of Death.
"You are ready for the new year/ but I am just the end of this year/ which soon becomes a past event," sings lead singer Artiwara Kongmalai, aka Toon.
In recent years, he has been a poster child for heroic philanthropy. He ran across the country to raise funds for hospitals that care for the poor and even though his campaign sparked controversy, the band has undeniably added another meaningful song to their two decade-old catalogue.
Taitosmith
Suk Wun Neung (Someday) is the closing track on the second album by rock for life band Taitosmith. It earlier released the song, but introduced a music video this month. It recounts the experience of rural workers in the city and gives them moral support.
"Just in case you have to overcome any given obstacle/ stand up with power for what you love," sings Itkron Pungkiatrussamee.
As the story develops, his crooning takes on a raspy tone at the chorus, while musical instruments transition from a guitar to a resounding orchestra. Monochrome for the video heightens a meaningless existence, but eventually it switches to natural colours to convey hope for better days.
Joey Phuwasit
Mesa Ja Klab Pai (Will Return Home In April) is the latest release off the first album by Isan singer Joey Phuwasit. It tells the story of a boy who steps into the ring for a living. Like other workers, this young boxer is determined to give money to his mother upon return for the village holidays in April and December.
Itkron of Taitosmith composed this song, but chose Joey to deliver it, as befits his background. He studied Thai music at university and worked as a teacher before quitting to compete in The Voice Thailand in 2018. He later became a backup musician for his coach's band and released his own tunes.
Listen to the songs on youtube.com.
