Tim Paters, also known as Stræpa, has made his return. As someone who has reviewed his work multiple times, I can say that he consistently sets a high bar for other artists. But today is a special moment: Tim hasn’t just maintained his standard of quality—he has outdone himself. His new release, “If You Still Remember,” sounds like a multifaceted state of mind.
If you take a moment to press “play,” from the very first seconds, you will be enveloped by a searingly melancholy piano. It plays to the accompaniment of rain, which seems to tenderly hide its tears from prying eyes. A moment later, a masterful saxophone performance awakens. It feels like an unexpected ray of sunlight breaking through dense clouds on a gloomy day. The saxophone here plays the role of a voice of hope, offering its long-awaited warmth exactly when it is needed most.
The beat acts as a kind of “glue” in this composition. It expertly joins these two polar instruments, maintaining a balance between deep melancholy and bright inspiration. The music doesn’t let you fully fall into either extreme. All the sharp edges are softly smoothed out by a fragile bass, while light, tinkling plucks emerge here and there—like delicate frost patterns on a winter window.
Reflecting on the meaning Stræpa poured into this work, I caught myself with an interesting thought. For me, this track revealed its more melancholic side. Perhaps it is an echo of life experience or those traumas we tend to recall as we get older. However, I am certain: for the younger generation, who haven’t yet lost their primal enthusiasm for life, this work will seem incredibly romantic and inspiring.
The perception of this music is an intimate process. It depends on:
- What exactly do you remember?
- What path have you walked side-by-side with life?
- How “torn” is your inner self?
In summary, I can say one thing: “If You Still Remember” is a universal tool for self-reflection. Stræpa has created a space where everyone will find something of their own: some will find solace in sadness, while others will find a spark for their dreams. Whatever the case, this release confirms that the true quality of music lies in its ability to resonate in every heart differently, while remaining invariably beautiful.
Did this track move you? 💔