“Call” is a hauntingly beautiful and melancholic ballad by ReeToxA. It tells a story as old as time itself, fleeting sparks of love and the insatiable yearning for human connection. The atmosphere it creates is tangible and palpable in every note, and the sparse appearance of the percussion conveys the sense of isolation that the protagonist feels.
As with all ReeToxA’s songs, the narrative isn’t based on abstractions; it’s based on real experiences. The protagonist here is the band’s vocalist, Jason McKee, and the song is based on a fleeting reunion over a random weekend with an ex-partner of his on the Gold Coast that was over as quickly as it started. Before he could realize it, he was alone once again at Brisbane Airport, waiting for a call that never came.
The narrative is conveyed beautifully in the lyrical aspect of the song. With repetitive lines urging the other party in this fleeting encounter to say something. Desperately calling for a call. It’s genius, and the soft vocal style here is perfect for Jason. In my opinion, his vocals shine a lot more when utilized in this way.
Musically, it’s just as great with airy guitar layers phasing in and out like apparitions. Layers like ghosts that represent a connection that is itself presumed dead and haunts the artist with its wasted potential. The way the instrumentation here reflects the narrative is nothing short of brilliant.
ReeToxA’s “Call” is a timeless ballad, masterfully crafted. It showcases the authenticity of the band’s artistic vision. And manages to tell a story that is deeply personal but with enough nuance and space for you to hijack it with your imagination, with your own stories of desperate yearning.