Ulrich Jannert, a German musician, is a master at creating the kind of serene, melodic soundscapes that entice you to slow down and dream. His music strikes a lovely balance between being calming enough for a peaceful afternoon of rest and having a contemplative, upbeat vibe that is truly encouraging. I’m excited to share his most recent work with you because I’ve been listening to his songs “Barefoot Dreams” and “Compass” a lot lately. “Two Men By The Harbor,” his most recent single, which was released on January 2nd, flawlessly embodies the warmth and serenity for which he is renowned.

The saxophone and piano’s cool, melodic interplay at the beginning of the song creates a mood right away. However, Ulrich’s vocals, which, to be honest, are as smooth as butter, come in just as you’re getting into that instrumental groove. It’s the kind of soulful delivery that, in the best way possible, surprises you.

The song’s theme is a moving dialogue between two men standing at a harbor, each of whom expresses a distinct outlook on life. In this exquisitely crafted dialogue, one man longs for the security and coziness of stability, while the other is drawn to the allure of movement, danger, and uncharted territory. The harbor thus serves as a mirror for the listener, subtly posing the question of which route feels more genuine. It appeals to the universal human tug-of-war between our two sides, the side that thinks the biggest rewards are always worth the risk and the side that yearns for security and predictability. In the end, it raises the eerie question: Do we prefer the freedom of the sea or the safety of the shore?

Heartfelt storytelling and a contemporary, uplifting, contemplative vibe are perfectly balanced in this song. Because of its adaptability, it works well with any playlist that includes chill rock, soul, indie, or Americana. Warm grooves, organic arrangements, and lyrics that are given plenty of room to breathe are the song’s true strengths; it never feels crowded. Being an original work, the sound designed by the independent artist Ulrich Jannert cannot be strictly classified into any particular genre. It is gorgeously packaged with a soft soul rock vibe, skillfully incorporating the nuances of R&B, folk rock, and subtle undertones of country rock. Being a truly authentic amalgamation of sound, it is absolutely fresh but also ageless!

Emerging from a profoundly intimate source, this piece of music has its own use and purpose for Jannert in terms of his questions, observations, and choices that he has faced within his own life experience. The music composed here is suited for everyday introspection, with everything the way that would enable one to connect with their inner truth. It is not dispensing advice but provides a refuge for all of us in the form of “Two Men By The Harbor.” The intent of Ulrich’s intentional music is apparent, even in matters of detail, and the artwork on his CDs wonderfully portrays the exact spot at the harbor where these two elements come together. Truly, it is a gift of a song, and I appreciate the effort he placed into each note.

As this is my third collaboration with Ulrich, he has yet to disappoint me, and he has, yet again, proven that he has what it takes to be an absolute artist by infusing every note of this marvelous music with a piece of his own soul. I am already exhilarated at what this year has in store for me, thanks to this phenomenal artist!

Stream “Two Men By The Harbor”  on Spotify 

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