Loving Vincent - Swanson

By Irina Atanasiu

South Jersey-based indie-rock band Swansun, made up of Alan DeCecco (guitar), Evan Ayrer (bass), Ryan Foor (keys) and Evan Pensabene (drums) released their newest single “Loving Vincent” on Valentine’s day earlier this year. ‘Loving Vincent’ is the first single the band has released after their second album came out in October 2024.

The song was inspired by the feeling of having a crush on someone, and the Valentine’s Day release further emphasises that ‘Loving Vincent’ is a love song. The band cites The Smiths, R.E.M. and The Cure as some of their main influences, and the song reflects that what with its melancholic instrumentation and vulnerable lyrics. Lines such as “everything’s been so different since I’ve been loving Vincent, but I know in the morning he’ll want me to go” paint the picture of someone who is idealizing a lover they instinctively know isn’t right for them. That feeling of holding on to someone that you know deep down won’t stick around is something that many listeners are bound to relate to.

Sonically, the song has a warm and exciting vibe throughout, making the song a classic alternative-rock banger that fans of bands such as The Cure, R.E.M. and The Beatles are bound to appreciate. I’m looking forward to hear what else this emerging rock band has in store for the near future.