Glasgow-based singer songwriter Rhona Macfarlane releases her new EP ‘Closing the Window’ next month (12th November), produced by Matt Ingram (Laura Marling). Ahead of the release, she has a second single to share titled No Rain. Her earlier release, ‘Better When You’re Around’, has received recognition from BBC Radio Scotland shows such as The Roddy Hart Show, The Iain Anderson Show and Radio nan Gàidheal, and this new single is equally deserving of such support. The accompanying video by Skaiste Klaniute is a beautiful accompaniment. Whether intentional or not, the winter scene accentuates the song’s depths, for it is in winter that we traditionally look back at the passing year, remembering shared moments and those that are long past.
‘No Rain’ is a poignant song capturing the passing of time and the power and depth of family relationships. Although the song captures an emotional intensity, it still manages to be simultaneously uplifting.
The opening lyrics set against a bare guitar and cello line with exposed vocals set the tone for the listener. Still, as the track builds, it opens out to an uplifting and hopeful chorus joined by celebratory, soaring strings.
Rhona explains: “The idea for the song came from a passing remark made to me by someone who had just lost their life partner; she said…‘well, at least there’s no rain outside.’ It struck me that this was equally sad, stoic and hopeful and reminded me that even in times of loneliness and sadness, there is always something to be grateful for, even if it’s as simple as a sunny day.
“This start point led me to think about the broader theme of time and the observation that whatever happens the sun will continue to rise. While people will come and go from our lives, the legacy and imprint they leave behind can provide a genuine source of comfort and inspiration.”
No Rain is also our Song of the Day.
Closing the Window EP is released on 12th November. The songs came from a time of inward reflection and solitude during the pandemic when ties with family and friends were cut-off and sharing music was limited. These reflective and personal songs draw on stories of everyday human experiences which capture themes of love, family, vulnerability, loss, and time while still maintaining a strong sense of hope and acceptance. Rhona describes the EP as ‘having a sense of romanticism but in that Scottish sort of way where you still maintain some realism and emotional restraint.’ She hopes ‘that the EP will provide some comfort and closure to this past year of loss and strain but provide a sense of hope and acceptance that helps people move forward while still remembering.’
Links to follow Rhona can be found here: https://rhonamacfarlane.co.uk/links/