A collection of warm Wurlitzer tones, pop riffs and choir-esque harmonies
Ross Carley
11:15 23rd July 2021

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Dan Croll is back with a new collection of tunes to wrap your ears around, in the form of the On Top EP, which follows from the release of his highly acclaimed 2020 album Grand Plan. Croll has also announced the launch of his ‘Reluctant Runners Club’ on Strava. 

Dan the man’s latest EP is a collection of warm Wurlitzer tones, pop riffs and choir-esque harmonies which amalgamate into a pleasant and charming collection of tracks. ‘Why Are You Hiding Away?’ offers up a ridiculously catchy hook, and it's so good. Overall, the record is a kind of sad/happy mix-up of emotions and tight grooves. ‘On Top’ is through-and-through, an indie hit. It’s also hard not to bop your head with naivety to ‘Big One’ as Croll tells the story of his time in turmoil, living alone in L.A. during the pandemic. 

Despite the melancholy and downbeat feel to some of Croll’s lyrics, his songwriting and craftsmanship shines a warm light across the horizon. It almost feels optimistic about the future, particularly on the title track: “When time apart is so long/I’m on top when I think about you” sings Dan over a funk-infused bassline

Dan Croll’s optimism doesn’t just apply to his music though. No. He’s also announcing the launch of his ‘Reluctant Runners Club’. Having spent the last year in a foreign country in isolation, Dan truly appreciates the power of good mental health and is excited to virtually jog alongside his fans. The club is open for anyone to join, and prizes will be given away at random just for being a part of the community and being active, whether it’s running, cycling, swimming, or more. 

Speaking about the initiative, he said, “Exercise has always been very important to me, and in more ways than just breaking a sweat. It’s forced me to get out of the house or work environment, helped me to socialise, find clarity in tough times, and also enjoy new music.”

On Top is out now.

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Photo: Press