We live in such a loud world – the high volume of obligations, advertisements, and information make for a cacophony. The fact that Bob Ross’s “The Joy of Painting” has become culturally relevant again is just one of the signs that people are craving quiet, calm, and assurance. Georgia Harmer’s single “Little Light” is a splendidly hushed ode to stillness.
With “Little Light,” Toronto-based singer-songwriter Harmer has captured a series of wondrous small, mundane moments and shown what brilliance is all around us if we will simply have eyes to see it. The song starts with arpeggiated guitar and Harmer’s soothing vocals. The chorus, featuring the title phrase repeated with varying inflections, washes over the listener like a lullaby. Touches of slide guitar, atmospheric vibraphone, and light percussion join in gradually to move the song along dynamically.
Harmer most effectively captures a moment with these standout lines around the middle of the song: “The light in the kitchen still on / The chorus is still sleeping ‘til dawn / And somewhere far away the day lumbers on.” In three short lines, a scene of peace and wistfulness is shaped.
“Little Light” has the subdued and comforting feel of small waves lapping at your feet. We each need to rest and to resist the persistent urge to always be “on,” and this tune offers about three minutes of respite. The song is a much-needed salve and an invitation to be still.
Photo Credit: Matt Kelly
Matt Wheeler is a Lancaster County, PA-based singer, songsmith, stage-banter conversationalist, husband, & special-needs father. And an avid vinyl record collector, a purveyor of random facts, & tour-er of Canada (southern Ontario is a favorite destination). Ever since being introduced to Great Lake Swimmers' music through Pandora in about 2009, he has had an appreciation for Canadian music.
Matt's songs & stories, including his classic literature-based project "Wonder of It All," can be found at www.mattwheeleronline.com.
