REVIEW: Letting Go, Skylight Webzine
/May 23, 2026 | Billy Yfantis
Kevin Harrington claims that “Letting Go” is “a song about growth…change…letting go of old ways,” with a focus on accepting a new path with confidence and clarity. Keyboardist Joe McGinty, who is well-known for his work with The Psychedelic Furs, Nada Surf, Ryan Adams, and Deborah Harry, joins Deardarkhead to further enhance the song. The production crew, which was recorded at Miner Street Recordings in Philadelphia, also comprises mastering engineer Joe Lambert, Brian McTear, and Amy Morrissey. Their combined experience adds more detail to the release’s sound. The song begins with vibrant drumming and beautiful, Shoegaze-inspired guitar sounds that immediately bring out a nostalgic atmosphere characteristic of bands like Lush, Slowdive, and the Stone Roses. From the beginning, the composition balances dreamy warmth with a steady rhythm, resulting in a sound that is upbeat. “Letting Go” is an instrumental work that communicates its message purely through melodic expression and mood. The guitars take on the major narrative style of the piece, expanding through dynamic phrasing and layered sounds that create an exploratory and open atmosphere. Rather than remaining static, the arrangement is constantly evolving with small modifications and changing musical patterns. Technically, the performance is very detailed, featuring numerous changeovers and interconnected instrumental components that call for careful attention. These changing patterns correspond to Harrington’s topic of inner development, reinforcing the concept of movement, advancement, and emotional freedom through sound only. Finally, “Letting Go” works as both a nostalgic shoegaze-influenced instrumental and a personal statement about change and rebirth. Its lush guitar work, fluid arrangement, and powerful atmosphere allow for an engaging listening experience that inspires self-analysis and gentle optimism.
