Hazel Ray – Lonely

Hazel Ray’s latest track, Lonely, is a shining example of what modern vocal commercial dance music should aspire to be. Energetic, uplifting, and thought-provoking, it merges emotional depth with infectious beats. This song isn’t just another dance anthem—it’s a reflection on loneliness, depression, and the human condition, offering hope to those who feel disconnected.

The opening moments of Lonely set the tone with a deep, pulsating bassline that immediately grabs attention. This bassline, consistent throughout the track, lays a firm foundation for the vibrant rhythm that follows. The beat is fast-paced but not overwhelming, perfectly suited to the genre of commercial dance, and invites the listener to lose themselves in the music. The rhythmic structure is a balance of sharp, precise kicks and snare hits, driving the song forward while maintaining enough space for the other elements to shine.

Hazel Ray’s voice is undeniably the highlight of the track. Her vocals soar above the rhythmic layers with a warmth and clarity that captures the essence of the message she wants to convey. There is a certain vulnerability in her tone, especially during the verses, where the lyrics delve into the struggle of feeling isolated and lost. Yet, as the track builds toward its chorus, her voice takes on a more powerful, determined quality, embodying the sense of triumph that comes with overcoming those feelings. It’s this emotional duality in Hazel’s performance that makes Lonely both relatable and uplifting.

Synths play a critical role in shaping the track’s atmosphere, blending seamlessly with the rhythm to create a space that feels expansive and ethereal. The synth work is both modern and nostalgic, evoking memories of early 2000s dance tracks while still sounding fresh and contemporary. The bright, shimmering synths build progressively as the song moves forward, adding layers of sound that rise and fall in sync with the emotional narrative of the lyrics. These synths offer a sense of hope, pushing the listener towards the realization that, as Hazel says, “we are not alone at all, that we are part of something greater.”

The production, handled by Roxley, is top-notch. The mix is clean, ensuring that every element—from the bass to the synths, and especially Hazel’s vocals—comes through with crystal-clear precision. Steve James’ mixing and mastering skills are evident in the track’s polished finish. The dynamics of the song, from its quieter introspective moments to its powerful drops, are handled with care, ensuring the track feels cohesive and impactful.

Lyrically, Lonely offers a positive and empowering message. In a world where many people suffer from loneliness and depression, Hazel Ray’s words resonate deeply. She reminds us that loneliness is a state of mind, not a permanent condition, and that by exploring within ourselves, we can find the connection we’ve been missing. This philosophical depth adds a layer of meaning to a genre that is often more focused on dancefloor appeal than introspection, making Lonely stand out in the commercial dance scene.

Overall, Hazel Ray’s Lonely is a high-quality release that perfectly balances emotional depth with danceable energy. It’s a song that will appeal to a wide audience, from those looking for something introspective to those just wanting to lose themselves in a good beat. We’re proud to feature Lonely on our webzine and highly recommend it to anyone looking for a track that will make them think and dance in equal measure.

Make sure to check out Lonely when it drops on August 2 across all digital platforms—it’s a track you won’t want to miss.