Bristol folk solo artist Dryadic returns with the radiant new single ‘Smiling in the Dark’, a celebration of love that dances with joy and energy. Helmed by the magnetic Zora McDonald and supported by Aly Rainey’s uplifting fiddle and George Pearson’s grounding double bass, this track exemplifies Dryadic’s knack for melding traditional folk roots with an irresistibly catchy pop sensibility.
Produced by Jake Skinner, known for his work with Sam Ryder and Nigel Kennedy, the track is a polished gem. Recorded at Brighton Road Recording Studios, the production enhances Dryadic’s effervescent sound without overshadowing the raw emotion and authenticity that define their style.
From the outset, ‘Smiling in the Dark’ radiates warmth. Opening with strummed acoustic guitar, buoyant percussion, and Rainey’s bright fiddle melodies, the track immediately invites listeners into its uplifting energy. McDonald’s vocals, equal parts soulful and playful, draw you into heartfelt verses recounting the butterflies of new love. Her storytelling feels intimate yet universal, underscoring the joy of queer love with an unassuming, matter-of-fact confidence.
As the track reaches the chorus, a playful shift to an offbeat rhythm injects an unexpected twist, keeping the arrangement fresh and engaging. Hooky vocal lines and tight instrumentation shine here, creating an earworm melody that lingers long after the track ends. A lively fiddle solo adds another dynamic layer, leading into a triumphant final chorus that brims with jubilance.
What makes ‘Smiling in the Dark’ truly special is its balance: romantic but never saccharine, energetic without feeling frenetic, and rooted in tradition while leaning into modernity. It’s a testament to Dryadic’s ability to craft music that resonates across boundaries, inviting all listeners to share in the joy of its message.
Zora McDonald’s activism as the founder of Queer Voices Gloucestershire and co-founder of Hot Flush Events enriches the context of the track. While ‘Smiling in the Dark’ is deeply personal, its broader resonance reflects McDonald’s commitment to celebrating LGBTQ+ stories and experiences.
As a follow-up to their 2021 releases, ‘Smiling in the Dark’ is not just a return but a leap forward for Dryadic. Buoyant, bold, and brimming with personality, the single is a glowing reminder of her potential.
Listen below: