Scott Standley - called by a tone

Scott Standley

​called by a tone
self-released; 2023

4.0 out of 5

​By My Nguyen

Scott Standley is an Austin-born singer/songwriter and multi-instrumentalist, whose music has always been experimental and choral-focused. He grew up listening to Bonnie Raitt, Lyle Lovett, choral hymns and folk standards and you can definitely see these influences in his music as well as more modern acts like Bon Iver, Frank Ocean, Perfume Genius and Sufjan Stevens. 

Standley has contributed to rock ground Jungleset and ChooChoo in the past. But with his solo material, Standley returns to his roots of playing lap dulcimer with his grandparents in Victoria, Texas, going on to infuse his new sound with modern touches. Standley is now back with his latest single, “Called By A Tone” where he wears his influences on his sleeves as well as bringing across a sound all his own. 

Right away, some overlapping vocals that had choral-like components came in. I was immediately reminded of artists like Bon Iver and Vampire Weekend. While that was true, I also think this sounded like nothing I’ve ever come across before. Standley’s unique sound really stood out for me. 

I loved the flavorful falsettos that were layered to give off a highly cinematic and ambient vibe that also reminded me of oldies music. The ‘50s and ‘60s absolutely came alive. In addition, the keys, guitars and percussion all worked together to give off a very inviting vibe.

​I enjoyed this uplifting track that had so much goodness in it. And I loved every second of this choral anthem that I think will be great for summer!

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