Paul Iwan - Returning (Blue)
The winning song from the songwriting challenge at Threshold Festival 2019, 'Returning' is the new single from Liverpool singer songwriter Paul Iwan. Taking its title from the brief of the challenge, the concept of returning was associated with relapse and regression for Paul Iwan, who has suffered from PTSD. The competition pushed him outside of his usual comfort zone, and into a more acoustic setting and letting the song speak for itself. A year later, and Paul Iwan is releasing two versions of his new single 'Returning'. The Red version of Returning is in Paul Iwan's usual style, driven by synths, loops and electric guitars, and the Blue version is stripped back to a simple arrangement.
This stylised and conceptual project is the perfect showcase of Paul Iwan's writing and vocal ability. Paul Iwan explores identity and otherness in his music. Inspired by Gary Numan, Radiohead and Manic Street Preachers, there is a maturity and depth in Paul Iwan's sound. Described as "Impressive, inspired and bold" by Ray Davies (The Kinks), Paul Iwan has put his stamp on the alternative electro sound.
Both Red and Blue versions of 'Returning' will be available on all major streaming platforms on the 3rd April.
lyrics
So I lean into my darkness
I touch the trauma with the tips of my fingers
Under this light how can I see?
The shadows are shifting; inviting me in.
You are there
You are there
Suffocating and suffering
I hold my hands
I'll be watching
I'll be waiting for you
I'm returning to my fear
Its all I know
I know my storm is coming in
Whatever I've taken
You hold my soul my memories
This face in the mirror
The face of my nightmare
Lost and corrupted
I'm returning from a distance
But my reflection is all I see
I'm yearning for the past
The one I thought I'd lost forever
So much pain within
I'm returning to my fear
It's all I know
credits
released April 3, 2020
Written, performed and produced by Paul Iwan at Studio 45 Liverpool
Mixed and mastered by Andy Fernihough at 3rd Planet Studios Liverpool
