Better When You’re Around is the lead single from Rhona Macfarlane’s forthcoming second EP ‘Closing the Window’ which is scheduled for release in the fourth quarter of 2021. The EP is produced by Matt Ingram whose credits include Laura Marling and Lianne La Havas.
This first single is an uplifting and joyful track that recognizes being around the right people is the key to inner happiness, regardless of circumstances. It’s a stark and honest reminder of what’s really important, as we slowly emerge into the new normal of a Covid world.
Rhona’s reflective story telling recalls a range of influences including Joni Mitchell, The Blue Nile, Nick Drake, John Martyn, Neil Young and Adrianne Lenker. Her soothing vocals set against her bright 12-string guitar and melodic piano, that weaves in and out like passing thoughts, gently casts a spell over the listener. There is a wonderfully understated intimacy to this record.
The simplicity, sincerity and sensitivity of Rhona Macfarlane’s song writing gives fans a taste of what to expect from the next single release and upcoming EP.
The songs on the EP came from a time of inward reflection and solitude during the pandemic when ties with family and friends were cut-off and sharing music was limited. This period of personal writing was also a transition in Rhona’s life from student into adulthood. These reflective and personal songs draw on stories of everyday human experiences which capture themes of love, family, vulnerability, loss and time while still maintaining a strong sense of hope and acceptance. Rhona describes the EP as ‘having a sense of romanticism but in that Scottish sort of way where you still maintain some realism and emotional restraint.’ She hopes ‘that the EP will provide some comfort and closure to this past year of loss and strain but provide a sense of hope and acceptance that helps people move forward while still remembering.'
Glasgow based singer-songwriter Rhona Macfarlane is an accomplished musician, recently graduating from The Royal Conservatoire of Scotland.
Rhona’s talent was spotted at an early age, when she was selected to participate in the Hit the Road touring project for 14–19-year-olds. During this tour Rhona was chosen to perform live on the Janice Forsyth Show on BBC Radio Scotland.
She subsequently released her debut EP “The Tide” which continued to pick up radio support on BBC Radio nan Gàidheal, the Roddy Hart Show and BBC Introducing. Rhona’s live talent resulted in support slots for Josh Rouse, Nell Bryden, Martha Reeves and Siv Jakobsen. She has also performed at Celtic Connections and the Belladrum Tartan Heart Festival. With restrictions easing and the live music scene returning, Rhona hopes to gig again and tour. Follow social media links below to keep up to date with what’s happening.
Website: rhonamacfarlane
Facebook: www.facebook.com/rhonamacfarlanemusic
Twitter: twitter.com/rhonamacfarlane
Instagram: www.instagram.com/rhonamacfarlanemusic