We’ve got our hands on another of Bongo Boy Records‘ finest today. New Jersey-based artist Bob Shaw originally joined the label with the release of some of his holiday music, appearing on Consecration Revival Volume III. This year, however, we’re getting a taste of some non-holiday music from Shaw with his new single release. Long Distance Call From Earth to Heaven has all the hallmarks of quality, story-focused singer-songwriter music.
Long Distance Call From Earth to Heaven is fairly simple in execution, leaning heavily on acoustic guitar to move the track along. That said, the track has a compelling build despite its fairly minimal production, adding light percussion and an arrangement of pads and synths to build intensity especially at its conclusion. Shaw’s voice is a highlight, bringing a raw, gritty authenticity to the arrangement that results in an overall sound that seems to have a ’70s folk-rock foundation.
The lyric writing in this track is a high point as well. Shaw clearly puts focus on stories within his music, and this track is a great example of his writing style. Taking a concept that is all too familiar to some – wishing to place a call from earth to heaven – Shaw puts his own enlightening spin on it, encouraging listeners to search within themselves for peace:
“In a dream, an angel said to me
It’s a local call let me place the call for you
You see he lives within you, he lives all around you
And there are no long distance calls from earth to heaven
Cause the lines are open all the time“
Shaw has released an official music video to accompany the track, and it’s an elevating addition. With himself at the center, the video takes us on a journey through artistic visuals. The viewer is treated to spectacular views of nature from beaches to meadows, to solemn church interiors, to moments of soaring through the clouds. It’s a great accompaniment to the track, capturing the ethereal, awe-inspiring feeling that permeates it.
For fans of religious-based, acoustic-forward, singer-songwriter style music, Long Distance Call From Earth To Heaven checks all the boxes. This is a thoughtful, relatable, and introspective piece of sonic art that captures Bob Shaw‘s style honestly and effectively. Get your copy of this moving single out now on Bongo Boy Records below.
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BELOW: Listen to Long Distance Call From Earth to Heaven and connect with his website and social media platforms. Please support Bob Shaw by visiting him online, and playing, downloading, and/or purchasing his music, or attending a live show! And, as always, thank you for supporting real music!