Tom Minor returns with his single Bureau of Change, which comes in hot on the heels of his previous single. The London-based singer-songwriter has been labelled an existential indie, and this tune is testament to that.
The message in the song is about the concept of progress that is not progress in the centre of the song. It focuses on hollow promises that seem to be significant, but are not. Tom deals with that idea using sharp humour instead of anger. It is a serious take on power and authority that's playful and cutting.
Musically the song is notable for the amount of movement. It plays indie rock, ska inspired rhythm, tango and bolero in just a few minutes. It is always changing shape but never its main thread. This kind of motion might seem cluttered, but with Tom it's kept clean and clear, like it's all been done with care and no leeway.
His voice is suited to this evolving sound. He is aware and theatrical in his delivery, like he's telling a joke that’s also serious. It is awkward and uncomfortable, but that's the point. It's a balance that's not simple to maintain, but he does.
Against the production of Teaboy Palmer, Tom has produced a well-refined, but still rough and satirical, track. Every change of style is well spaced, there is no sense of haste even though the song is in constant flow from one section to the next.
The secret of the engagement of Bureau of Change is that it doesn't stop moving. Tom's sound is inspired by new wave and soul, and has evolved into an entirely personal, unique, sharp and characterful sound. It's a good addition to his expanding discography and demonstrates a style that's increasingly becoming more focused and interesting over time.
