It opens with a sleek drum rhythm, introducing a bright and breezy pairing of saxophone and guitar before diving into a passionate and expressive first verse. The vocals, performed by Ian Whiteling, immediately pull you into the moment, whilst the instrumental control from Amar Grover, Jack Dawkins and Joshua Van Ness pull the rest of the upbeat soul together.

The band share, “Our driving, funky, infectious single ‘Present’ is an anthem about living for the moment. In an increasingly uncertain and unstable world, the hook to the song “There’s no time like the present” has never been more appropriate. From doing all the things you’ve ever dreamed of, to saving the planet, there really is no time to lose! And we hope that ‘Present’ helps to put a rocket up the arse of the world! Even if it’s simply telling someone that you love them, stop dithering and JUST GODAMN DO IT! The song continues our journey towards the groovier side of psychedelic soul. Although we’re again wearing our love of the 60s and 70s sound boldly on our sleeve – from the Rolling Stones to James Brown and Curtis Mayfield – ‘Present’ follows its own path with Ian Whiteling’s distinctive big soulful vocals, Amar Grovers driving bass guitar, Jack Dawkins’ jazzy sax with a hint of the East, and Joshua Van Ness’s funky drums.”

Formed in West London way back in 2016, before releasing their debut album three years later, NDX has built a following across their local scene. Now with a fast-paced year and Glasto performances in their arsenal, they’ve rounded out the year with a bang, ready for more in 2025. So with ‘Present’, there’s no better time to dive into NDX than, well you get the idea.

Plus Music PR

Near Death Experience offers some colorful melodies with a playful laid-back delivery on Lightning. I loved their approach to this song, creating a rocking catchy structure with a fluid sound, streaming melodies, and subtle groovy bassline, all in a dynamic fun form that keeps the listener hooked and entertained. It has some cool guitar work, with warm licks and melodies and some moving acoustic strumming coming together in perfect harmony, laying a soothing chill layer over Lightning’s sound while the vocal melody plays a big part in steering the song’s energy and dynamics toward their desired sound.

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Lightning is a catchy chill tune with a bright sound by Near Death Experience, showing their writing skills and musicianship crystal clear with no overdoing, just by unleashing their seasoned writing and a good sense of mood and melody, taking the listener on the bright cheerful trip that I believe we all need these days. Looking forward to more from Near Death Experience, keep on rocking. Cheers!