Sombr’s “12 to 12” is the Song of the Summer
Photo via Spotify
Albeit a couple of months late, this 20-year-old indie rock, alternative pop, eventual-white-boy-of-the-month Sombr has heard our cries and granted us the song of the summer.
Through a summer of Jack Antonoff beats and lackluster songs failing to sound and evoke anything different from every other song, Sombr’s “12 to 12” finds that dancy, evocative, upbeat sound that delivers on its promise to get you grooving.
Reminiscent of the 70’s spirit of resistance—a draw to a feeling of openness and just pure boogie (and now a repeat offender on my “Let’s Boogie” playlist), this song captures the 60’s and 70’s more experiential sounds while drawing in now popularized electronic, Tame Impala-esque sounds.
Coming off his 2024 hit “back to friends,” granting him the opportunity to reach for mainstream success, he used his new release, “12 to 12,” to confirm that he’s ready for the big leagues.
His most recent entry into stardom starts strong with a beat that pulls you in from the moment you press play—an invitation that knows it needs no introduction.
Sombr’s angsty, raspy voice floods the song almost immediately, careful not to overshine the funky beat behind him, but just enough to demand attention.
His more airy and inquisitive pre-chorus sets us up perfectly for the sensual, hip-moving, ass-grooving chorus, making it impossible not to forget about whatever else you’re doing and get lost in the moment.
Not to mention, his lyrics are undeniably relatable. A seemingly unsuccessful relationship that still stays on your mind, eyes wandering to attempt to find theirs at any location, or more appropriately on the same dance floor Sombr populates in his music video, wondering if they’re thinking and looking for you as well.
Though a common theme in songwriting, Sombr’s artistry is what makes this song such a hit. And adding the people’s princess, Addison Rae, to the wildly sensual music video only further argues the point of artistry. Addison, too, is soon-to-be pop royalty in the music scene, pushing the envelope with her sounds and fighting back against what’s expected of pop.
Like Addison, Sombr differentiates himself from the pack, showing originality, playfulness, and an authentic love of the art of making music.
This is exactly the reason Sombr’s “12 to 12” is the song of the summer—a dancy, upbeat track that doesn’t take itself too seriously, rather encouraging you to get lost in the moment and release your inhibitions. His 70s-reminiscent sounds mixed with a techno beat give the people exactly what they want—originality, a sense of authenticity, and a clear devotion to perfecting his sound.
Sombr, being only 20 years old and already making music that leaves you wanting more, only goes to show the powerhouse qualities that he possesses.
One listen to his newest single and I can promise you’ll be listening to it from “12 to 12” every day too.
