On the surface, Maddie Ettrich’s “Decaying Candles” talks about the morning after an incredibly fun party. The dance floor, with empty cups and drink stains, looks different in the morning light. The same is true for decorations that have fallen onto the floor in every which way. Both of these elements serve to remind us of the fun that was had. Knowing that the fun is now over can be a source of sadness. When listening to the song, I thought the party was really a symbol of life in general. Throughout our lives the happy times seem fleeting. However, Ettrich reminds us that “the seasons go, and they come back again. Nothing really ends.”
I really enjoyed how Ettrich used sound and instrumentation. At the beginning of the song, there is the sound of people talking which stops as soon as Ettrich begins singing. The detail is subtle, but it really does justice to the song’s title. After all, Ettrich does sing about how fun the party is, so it is only fitting to add an illustration of that fun. Similarly, in the first verse, she sings about a lingering party ghost. She uses the “ooh” harmonies to represent his presence. Another aspect of the song that I liked was Ettrich’s voice. I thought it flowed with the instrumentation.
Maddie Ettrich is an indie-pop singer/songwriter who was born in Canada. She now resides in Nashville, TN. It’s hard to believe that “Decaying Candles” is only her first single! It’s safe to say that she started off with a bang. I can’t wait to hear what else she has in store!
Written By Kelli Dixon
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