Single reviewsThe Other Side Reviews

Joris Bon – Realist (2023)

With the intensity of Lubomyr Melnyk and the flair of Ryuichi Sakamoto, French artist Joris Bon finds the line between electronic and classical then blurs it. Trained as a classical pianist, Bon understands the mechanical precision belying orchestral compositions; however, just as he fixes himself in the classical world, the intricacy of electropop weaves through his symphony. This might be my introduction to Joris Bon but has turned heads across the globe over the past few years. From the UK to the USA, France, Brazil and Germany, the “piano virtuoso” is met with critical acclaim and a loyal following. The latest addition to his discography is the single ‘Realist’.

Bon’s fourth release in 2023, ‘Realist’ follows his well-received singles ‘Cristal Meteor’ and ‘Back To Move’. As with ‘Cristal Meteor’, ‘Realist’ has a mellifluous piano flow in a heart-wrenching ballad style; however, it is a far cry from the electronic-driven single ‘Back To Move’. One of his more organic compositions (at least, according to Spotify), the new single oozes classical piano training within a soft, smooth, almost pop-inspired melody.

An instrumentalist by nature, Joris Bon demonstrates how lyrics are unnecessary to express raw emotion; it’s one of the reasons why people get shivers when listening to symphonies. Intimate, tender and brimming with heartfelt sincerity, Bon picks at your heartstrings as easily as he glides across the piano keys. Interestingly, while there is a sense of optimism in the composition, its underlying melancholy steps forth leaving you vulnerable, breathless and awestruck in its rawness. Just as the piano drives ‘Realist’ the shimmer of synths adds an off-kilter kick and edginess to the track.

Taking people on sonic journeys, Joris Bon unravels his tales transcending the need for words. Bon explains that the song depicts a couple travelling around the world with a need for authenticity “desperately looking for a new world between reality and fiction. ‘Realist’ is a piano electro single [with] a deep sound which inspires tranquillity, passion and emotion.”


Find out more about Joris Bon on his official website, Facebook, Instagram and Spotify.

This artist was discovered via Musosoup #sustainablecurator  


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