Released on March 14th, Harvey Jay Dodgson’s new track ‘Embers’ offers a candid look at the struggles of an up-and-coming musician, and it hits close to home for anyone chasing their dreams.
The song starts with a desperate plea, “oh won’t you give me something, oh god I want it so bad,” capturing that constant battle between desire and the harsh realities of pursuing a dream. The frustration quickly unfolds in the lyrics, especially in the raw confession, “I’m so damn close to nothing, but it’s the best that I’ve had.” There’s an undeniable honesty in these words, that expresses the exhaustion and disappointment that comes with pouring your heart into something without immediate appreciation.
At its core, ‘Embers’ is about longing for love, recognition, and success while navigating the emotional highs and lows of being a musician. The lyrics, “I’ve been at your door since I can remember, crying for your love,” speak to the yearning for validation that many artists feel, while the image of “sitting by the fire tryna light these embers up” adds a powerful metaphor. It’s as if he is trying to reignite a spark, even when it feels like the flames are dying out.
The line “I just spent all of my money and hard work slaving away, to make a brand new record, you won’t even pre-save” cuts deep. It’s the perfect blend of sarcasm and heartbreak, capturing the irritation that comes with giving your all, only to be met with indifference. But even through this frustration, the chorus brings it all back to the same sweet truth: “every single time I think I’m through, I can’t run out of love for you.”
The instrumental really stands out, with the music building intensity and giving the song a sense of urgency. The strong rhythm, catchy guitar riffs, and powerful percussion create a feeling of momentum, almost like the sound itself is pushing forward, matching the determination in the lyrics. The lead guitar (Finnian James) adds an edge with its striking riffs, while the bass (Jamie Lord) brings depth and drive, anchoring the intensity of the section. The drums (Connor Griffiths) power through with force, giving the song a solid backbone and boosting the raw emotion. It’s a bold shift that adds excitement to the song, giving a sense of strength and resolve before diving back into the more emotional parts. The power in this section shows how well the music can match the feeling of not giving up, even when things feel tough.
‘Embers’ is a song that feels deeply real and relatable. It’s a reminder that chasing your dreams isn’t always glamorous-sometimes it’s about pushing through exhaustion, frustration, and uncertainty. But through it all, there’s still a spark of hope, a love for what you do, that keeps you going. If you’ve ever been on the floor but somehow still keep crawling back for more, this song will speak to you.
Written by: Aleksandra Trusczyńska
Edited by: Suzanne Teernstra
