Longplayer, the solo endeavor of Los Angeles-based musician Mikey Long, is back with his third single, “I Saw You Turning Around,” a track that dives into the layered realms of memory, self-reflection, and release. Best known for his work with artists like Drugdealer, Mikey Long uses Longplayer as a creative sanctuary to explore themes and sounds with a level of intimacy and complexity that’s uniquely his own. Drawing from a rich tapestry of influences, Longplayer blends elements of rock, psychedelia, and classic pop, crafting songs that are as timeless as they are boundary-defying.
“I Saw You Turning Around” marks an important milestone for Longplayer, capturing a pivotal moment in the artist’s journey toward self-actualization. Inspired by a fleeting encounter with an ex-lover, the song contemplates the emotional growth that often follows the end of a significant relationship. Mikey describes the track as a moment of clarity and self-belief, set against a backdrop of lush instrumentation and thoughtful production. “The song is really about finding that stillness needed to let go,” Mikey explains, “and the confidence that comes when you finally do.” This single illustrates Mikey’s ability to transform personal experiences into universal messages that resonate with listeners.
The track’s sonic inspiration draws directly from George Harrison’s “Crackerbox Palace.” Inspired by Harrison’s masterful use of slide guitar, Mikey sought to craft a soundscape that is rich and immersive, where instruments weave seamlessly with the vocals to create a layered experience. “I love how in ‘Crackerbox Palace,’ the slide guitar almost sounds like a horn section, constantly interwoven with the vocals,” Mikey shares. “I wanted to create something similarly lush and layered, where there’s a lot happening, but nothing detracts from the central melody.” In “I Saw You Turning Around,” this approach translates into an intricate yet inviting sound, inviting listeners to explore each layer.
Adding to the track’s depth are the collaborative contributions of Jay Watson (known for his work with Tame Impala, Gum, and Pond), who provided drums and mixed the song while on tour with Pond in the UK. Watson’s punchy, precise drumming complements the song’s reflective nature, bringing a dynamic and grounding energy to the production. Additional synth work from Shags Chamberlain lends the track a cosmic touch, enhancing its sense of nostalgia and introspection. The collaborative process was both remote and dynamic, with Mikey and Jay exchanging ideas across time zones, resulting in a production that is cohesive yet multifaceted.
To bring the song’s contemplative spirit to life visually, Longplayer collaborated with director Carter McNeill and cinematographer Joon Voigt. The music video, shot and edited by Voigt and featuring video synthesizer effects by Julius Valledor, perfectly complements the track’s introspective tone. The video creates a dreamy, almost hypnotic aesthetic that mirrors the lush layers of the song itself, with visuals that capture the hazy beauty of memories and the bittersweet passage of time. Through shadowed, reflective shots and subtle visual effects, the video offers a fitting counterpart to the song’s themes of release and growth.
With “I Saw You Turning Around,” Mikey Long showcases his growth as a solo artist, diving deep into both songwriting and production. Longplayer’s music reflects a reverence for timeless musical traditions while pushing boundaries in sound and storytelling. In this single, Long’s commitment to blending classic influences with personal innovation shines, creating a track that feels deeply resonant yet refreshingly unique. “I Saw You Turning Around” is more than a single; it’s a testament to Long’s ability to craft music that is expansive yet introspective, honoring the past while carving his own path forward.
