Helen Shanahan has today announced the release of her stirring new single, I Only Hide, out February 17. In I Only Hide, Helen offers considerate comfort to those who suffer from anxiety; a comfort that only true empathy can provide. The song is fittingly accompanied by an honest and heartfelt video, featuring the pertinent storyline of ‘the two Helens’ and was produced in collaboration with Danny Martin and Elliot Smith of Villanova Music (Tim Minchin). Helen has also announced a string of hometown shows to celebrate I Only Hide, which kicked off at the Perth Fringe Festival last week and will be followed by the official single launch at Villanova Music on February 15, wrapping up with a coveted slot at the Perth International Arts Festival on March 4.
With the classic country feel that only a recording trip to Nashville can procure, I Only Hide is melancholy, sprawling, and driven by an undeniable guitar riff. The arrangement is immersive and considered; strings and persussion intertwine, allowing precious space for the melody to breathe. Because for all this, Helen’s effortlessly skillful vocal is the unassailable feature. I Only Hide was recorded in Nashville and produced by Brad Jones (Missy Higgins, Bob Evans, Melody Pool). Reflecting on the track, Helen says, “I wrote the song when I was feeling overwhelmed with the idea of performing and feeling safest in the comfort of my own home. The song is about how I felt I needed to hide myself for fear of being judged- be it in the music community, or in social situations. The social and performance anxiety was what really compelled me to write this. It’s hard to talk about, but somehow easier to sing about!”
