In the world where most humans worry about the increase in political tension and the danger to liberty, OpCritical move out with a clear-cut message in their song “Not Alone”. It is not just a song, but a song of solidarity, enlightenment, and boldness.
“Not Alone” is based on the traditional protest song Ohio by Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young, which was at one time the expression of the rage of the citizens in Vietnam War. OpCritical is based on that historic spirit but reinterpreted with new lyrics and modern sound that relates to the current social and political environment. The outcome is a song that seems both old and seriously new.
The song is emotionally charged and intense in musical terms. Starting at the very beginning, the heavy sound of guitars and the drumming detach us under the influence of the heavy atmosphere. The jagged guitar lines pass through the steady rhythm section and they depict a feeling of restlessness even though the song is tamed and on track. The production is smooth and yet not too polished leaving the emotion and message of the song clear.
The song is vocal dominant with a good harmony of voices. The vocals are also layered to make the song sound like a community, which makes the point that people are stronger when united. The strength of each chorus increases, so that the title Not Alone is a reply as well as a declaration.
The key to the success of the song is the sense of urgency and hope. It finds its way through very challenging realities without descending into despair. Rather than that, it makes the listeners stay awake, stay together and take active participation in the process of crafting the future they desire to witness.
Through “Not Alone”, OpCritical demonstrates that music can still be significant in motivating individuals and raise awareness of the issues that are important. It is a powerful rock song that lets one remember that he or she is not alone in difficult moments.
