My love for Arcade Fire has spanned most of my adult and teenage life. You can imagine, in light of this, the surprise and delight my eardrums experienced when I first listened to the band’s 2017 single which features renowned R&B and gospel singer Mavis Staples.
I Give You Power is markedly different from the band’s previous offers. It’s a remarkable fusion of genres and sounds, featuring a deep, rolling baseline and the band’s signature blend of otherworldly electronic sounds and effortlessly cultivated baritone vocal. Add into the mix, the wonderfully rich R&B sound of Mavis Staples’ voice, and you’ve got a unique kind of catchy masterpiece. What’s really striking to me about this song is the way in which Staples’ voice interlaces and undercuts Win Butler’s in a way that’s really powerful and somehow, seamless. Butler’s alternative, breathy style meets Mavis Staples’ soulful sound to create a really refreshing sound.
The song is energising and nuanced. It’s alternative rock and it’s R&B and although it is all these contradictions, it still manages to be really seamless in its execution. Again and again, I find myself drawn to certain pieces because of the elements of genre crossover in their composition. I Give You Power is an example of this in its most well executed form. Needless to say, I’m in awe of everyone responsible for making this song the guilt-free feel good banger that it is.
