REVIEW: "XING" by Derek Simpson
Derek Simpson
An Important Message Wrapped In A Catchy Summer Tune.
"XING" is a new single by Derek Simpson that combines playful guitar licks and bold percussion to form a song that not only blurs the line between genres but serves up a powerful rebuke of traditional gender norms. "The conversation around gender and gender roles these days has remained pretty serious, and rightfully so," says Simpson, adding, "We should all have the right to feel safe living in a free expression of our innermost truths."
Simpson, who is a 23-year-old indie artist living in Long Beach, California, says that his new single attempts "to carry a different conversation though, a lighter one that shines in celebration of androgyny and a liberating playfulness that comes with the decision to remain outside of any specific definitions." Simpson serves up this message beautifully and layers a lyrical narrative over his trademark spacey guitar chords in a manner that strikes the perfect tone. I love the way that this track delivers not only a critical message on gender normativity and freedom of expression but also serves, as Simpson puts it, as a celebration.
"XING" is only the latest track to come from Derek Simpson in what has been a hectic year and a half. Since the release of his debut album 'KiNG SUN' in 2019, Simpson has come out with a total of seven new singles, as well as a remix titled "9x16" alongside NYIKO and The White Electric.
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Simpson clearly places a lot of value on his creative freedom and individuality, as he writes, composes, produces, and mixes his tracks all by himself, without the interference of a traditional producer or studio manager. I find this highly evident in "XING," as Simpson's creativity and individuality radiate throughout the new song.
"XING" and several other tracks in Simpson's discography remind me quite a bit of the guitar and percussion combinations found in the music of Unknown Mortal Orchestra, who, like Derek Simpson, also moved to the west coast following their dive into the indie scene. The only difference is Unknown Mortal Orchestra technically moved east, from New Zealand to Portland, while Simpson moved west, from Boston to Long Beach. Simpson, who began putting out music under the name Planetarian, started getting traction after releasing two free albums onto Soundcloud in 2013 and 2016. Following those LPs, he left New England behind to pursue his music career alongside a budding community of independent artists in California.
Photos by Bryan Warner
Derek Simpson is an artist that everyone should take notice of, regardless of which genre you prefer or what type of music you traditionally listen to. Aside from being supremely talented, Derek's work ethic and commitment to his music combined with his careful craftsmanship will help his fame continue to rise in the coming years.
"XING" is a fantastic Summer single with an important message and promotes acceptance through its catchy lyrics and sweet rhythms.
Written by Patrick Breen