Planets – Winner (Single Review)

Today’s review is the new single “Winner” by the London based music duo Planets, formed by guitarist Hector Castro and vocalist Charlotte King. The duo has also recently released two other singles – “SIGNS” (July 2024) and “Red Earth” (Oct. 2024).

Describing the meaning behind the track, Hector Castro (guitarist) explains:

“The song is intended to motivate people unable to pursue what they really want in life. Some of us our own worst enemies, constantly getting in the way of what it takes to fully commit. But it’s never too late and this life is full of beginnings. We really hope it gives listeners more confidence in themselves, what they’re capable of individually and as part of a collective. The words stem from an intuition of a person yet to fulfill their potential.”

So let’s have a listen. You can find the group’s new single on Spotify.

The single starts off with the sound of a cassette tape being put into a boombox. A distant piano kicks in followed immediately by a stunning female vocalist (Charlotte King). Joined shortly after by the sound of an metal rhythm guitar motif. Sounds like a cranked Marshall amp. The heavy sound of Gojira or Metallica, which I like. But don’t let that fool you, the song is a masterfully crafted pop song against very heavy hitting guitars.

Hector continues:  “I had a lot of support growing up, probably more than most. But all I did was take it for granted and I think I was too lazy (or risk averse) to do the right thing. The song starts with a conversation with that side of me, and ultimately it’s about taking back control and trying to finally build a life I want.” Hector crafts the music and then brings Charlotte in to do her beautiful vocal thing over the top of his monster guitar riffs.

The instrument bed very much reminds me of songs by System of a Down. A song about broken promises. The chorus (“I know I’ll find a way that’s meant for me”) hits with an interestingly crafted heavy chord progression. Hector explains: “We both felt the song needed to modulate to a major key in the chorus; I suppose this is an example of the song telling us what it needs.” Very progressive rock. Then after the last chorus, at 2:18 into the track, everything suddenly drops out except a distant acoustic guitar and fades out on the lovely sound of Charlotte’s voice plaintively declaring “if I could sail into the sea and watch the birds fly over me, and turn the waves into a stream, then I’m a winner, I’m a winner, I’m a winner …”

SCORE/Excellent: From the pictures this duo has on Spotify, I fully expected this to be an acoustic guitar duo. Man, was I surprised when I heard the heavy metal power chords kick in. Charlotte’s voice is truly next level, and so is the production on this stunning rock track. The song is extremely interesting musically. If you like power pop with a metallic edge, put this song in your headphones, sit back, and enjoy the ride. It’s a winner!  Much love, Beth

[We rank singles, EPs, and albums on a scale of Poor, Mediocre, Good, Excellent, and Outstanding]

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