By Cynthia Gross
Behind every song, there’s a story. And in the case of DMV to Valencia transplants Ay Trick, theirs is a narrative of loss, recovery, and ultimately, rediscovery in music. Their debut single “All Around,” featuring Spanish musician Alfie CopovÍ on keys, is a funky, irresistibly soulful hit that makes it clear the band is a rising talent to watch.
After a series of hardships, including being arrested at a gig in Shenzhen, China, spending a week in jail, losing his job, getting deported, and parting with friends, vocalist and drummer Adrian Black decided to move back to his wife’s hometown of Valencia, Spain. Finding himself “at rock bottom,” Adrian connected with his friends Manu Linois, Kevin Reierson, and Andre Walker from the Berklee School of Music to form Ay Trick as a way to cope.
Together, the powerhouse group boasts over 80 years of combined musical experience, with performances across the continent, including North America, Europe, and Asia, which have resulted in collaborations with SkullCandy, DJI, Huawei, and Guy Laroche.
“We are Soul Slaves in the Transatlantic Love Trade because as foreigners living abroad, we know how it feels to leave your old life behind and set your sights on new passions,” notes Adrian. It’s often said crisis shows us what we’re made of – and it’s evident that Ay Trick is made of something much stronger.
Despite the marked adversity in the band’s history, “All Around” is an enchanting song full of warmth and passion. Fans of Marvin Gaye and Lenny Kravitz will feel at home with the fresh, groovy instrumentation and vocal prowess.
Lyrically, “All Around” poses many questions – “what do we need?” “what do you see?” “will we be free?” Perhaps more than revealing answers, the song is meant to encourage listeners to find peace in the unanswered ones. For DMV natives Ay Trick, home has become more than a spot on a map. It’s about the people who are in your corner, and they have found it in each other.
Check out Ay Trick’s debut single “All Around” here.
This track has been added to our Alchemical Weekly Spotify Playlist. Check it out!
Cynthia Gross is a freelance writer and award-winning spiritual pop artist based in Maryland. With more than a decade of experience as an executive ghostwriter, she understands the power of each individual’s voice to create positive, meaningful change.
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Alchemical Records is a Washington, D.C. based music publication. We cover the Washington, D.C., Baltimore and Richmond, VA metro area music scenes, including band interviews, articles about your favorite musicians, new music and concert dates.
