Rhys Tranter’s debut single, Call My Name, is a vibrant foray into the world of retro-pop with a contemporary edge. Hailing from Newcastle, Australia, Tranter’s ability to craft a song that balances playful nostalgia with modern artistry is on full display in this release. Slated for a December 20, 2024, release, the single promises to be a standout in the indie-pop landscape, blending catchy hooks, tongue-in-cheek lyricism, and meticulous production.
At the heart of Call My Name lies a story of serendipity and spontaneity. Tranter drew inspiration from a simple, yet endearing moment in his daily life: his wife’s casual singing of a chorus he had been playing on his guitar. This domestic muse served as the catalyst for a song that takes a witty jab at the chauvinistic themes often found in 1980s music. The result is a track that playfully subverts these clichés while delivering an infectious melody that’s hard to forget.
Tranter’s signature sound is a fusion of retro elements and inventive techniques, and Call My Name is no exception. Collaborating with producer Mat Leppanen from London’s Animal Farm Records, the duo spent considerable time perfecting the track. Their collaborative process, which involved swapping ideas and refining mixes, highlights the meticulous attention to detail that defines Tranter’s work.
One of the standout aspects of the track is its use of the e-bow, a device that creates a string-like sound when used on a guitar. This technique adds a layer of uniqueness to the song, complementing its synth-driven hooks and vibrant instrumentation. The result is a sonic tapestry that pays homage to the retro aesthetic while sounding refreshingly contemporary.
Tranter’s journey to crafting Call My Name underscores his growth as a songwriter. He candidly reflects on the complexities of writing a great pop song, admitting that the process has deepened his respect for the genre and its artists. This humility and dedication shine through in the track, which combines accessible pop sensibilities with subtle twists and turns in the composition.
The lyrics, both playful and reflective, strike a delicate balance between humor and commentary. By mocking the overly simplistic “boy meets girl” narratives that dominated 1980s music, Tranter offers a fresh perspective that feels both nostalgic and forward-thinking.
Recorded across two continents—Tranter’s home studio in Newcastle and the Animal Farm Records studio in London—Call My Name embodies the spirit of collaboration. Tranter and Leppanen’s dynamic partnership is evident in every aspect of the track, from its polished production to its carefully curated synth sounds. Their shared vision has resulted in a song that not only stands out for its catchiness but also for its intricate craftsmanship.
Call My Name marks a significant milestone for Rhys Tranter. As his debut single, it represents the culmination of years of musical exploration and growth. Tranter describes it as his strongest pop song to date, and it’s easy to see why. With its infectious chorus, memorable synth hooks, and innovative use of instrumentation, the track is poised to leave a lasting impression on listeners.
Rhys Tranter’s Call My Name is a testament to the power of inspiration, collaboration, and artistic dedication. It’s a track that not only captures the charm of retro-pop but also carves out a unique space for Tranter in the contemporary music scene. As he embarks on this new chapter in his career, Call My Name serves as a promising introduction to an artist with a bright future.
Follow Rhys Tranter on