It’s rare that I fall in love with a release so much that I quite literally have to clear my schedule so I can get a chance to write about it, but when I first listened to Chris Buxton’s new single pack I was completely blown away. His blend of alt pop and indie-alternative fully captured me sonically, while the lyrics felt like a step deep into Buxton’s mind.

The first of the two tracks, “HEAT OF THE NIGHT” featuring Natalie Carr is just the feel good song I needed. Buxton explores the fresh and youthful feeling of a blossoming relationship, wanting to affirm his love to his partner. He professes his undying love and commitment throughout their six year relationship, always having her on his mind, singing, “I’m thinking about you in the heat of the night.” The young love carries past the lyrics and into the tune, creating a dance-inducing track that is sure to be on repeat all spring long.

However, the relationship is a double edged sword, serving as a moment of realization and future learning as Buxton begins to realize these late night thoughts are not reciprocated. “For a while, it felt like I was really lonely in my own relationship and I wondered if it would even continue to work,” Buxtons said of his experiences. “I would ponder if I was the right person for her, and I would often question my own intentions. In hindsight, I had a lot of maturing to do and I think being able to get these thoughts out was a hard yet beautiful experience. Now, I realize that love is sometimes about fighting for someone until the end regardless if you know if it will work out or not."

“LMKWYD” further advances this theme, combining his passionate vocals with distorted hooks over a rock influenced instrumental. Buxton explains his struggles in the relationship, wanting answers while also realizing the time has come to let go. He wants to “know when we’re done” so he can move on rather than continuing going through mental loops of uncertainty.

Chris Buxton manages to put such a complex situation into just two songs, and doing so made something very beautiful. At just over five minutes combined, these are both sure to be in rotation for a long time. Check them out below:

‍

‍