Back with another favorite song.
I honestly do not know how or where I heard this song. It might have been served up by random on a streaming service or in a movie or show and I Shazam’d it. Zero clue. The most likely explanation is that I was doing a sampling of female pop artists and fell headlong into her discography. That sounds like something I would do.
What I can tell you is that this song is on my Pure Sugar playlist because it makes me happy every time I hear it.
Off her 2017 album Stay Lucky, this smooth sip of pop perfection from Nerina Pallot from England is drenched with 70’s AM joy. Evoking the same Joni Mitchell, Steely Dan, Fleetwood Mac, Christopher Cross sound that Sara Bareilles has made her bread & butter for years, “Man Didn’t Walk on the Moon” is a love song at heart. Complete with a lightly fuzzed guitar hook and a chorus that makes you want to sing and dance along, it is 3:30 of sunshine.
Nerina’s origin story is that she saw Kate Bush performing “A Woman’s Work” on tv as a youth and was inspired to pursue a career in music which is in itself kind of magical.
But enough history. Let’s talk about the song.
Beyond it’s classic 70’s pop with updated production, it captures that infatuation where common sense gives over the reigns to desire. The chorus is as addictive as pixie sticks with background vocals that reinforce that Joni Mitchell vibe. Is the song an epic masterwork? No. But if the goal of music is to convey a moment, a thought, an emotion, then “Man Doesn’t Walk on the Moon” is perfection. It compells me to crank up the volume when it comes on, seduces me into singing along and, space providing, dancing along. It gets the endorphins flowing.
No, this song will not change your life. But I can all but guarantee that it will make your day happier for at least 3:31 mintues and some days that’s all we can hope for.
Tales from the Ragged Edge 