Baggs' Latest Single, "Esplanade": A Dreamy Night by the River

Baggs, a rising Singaporean musician known for crafting intimate, indie tracks from the comfort of his bedroom, has released his latest single, Esplanade. Known for blending lo-fi sensibilities with indie warmth, Baggs’ music often draws listeners into his world of dreamy, heartfelt soundscapes. Esplanade stands as a shimmering example of this, showcasing his ability to create a track that feels both deeply personal and universally resonant.

In this track, Baggs draws upon his musical influences, a list that includes indie darlings such as Cavetown, Laufey, beabadoobee, grentperez, and boy pablo. Fans of these artists will recognise Baggs’ signature touch—a gentle, honest approach to storytelling through music that feels accessible and nostalgic. With Esplanade, he wanted to evoke a very specific feeling: the almost magical sense of strolling by the river at night, with jazzy, soothing melodies drifting into the cool night air. In Baggs’ own words, the track is an attempt to "capture the dreamy feeling of strolling by the river at night, with jazzy tunes playing in the background." And he does just that, creating a tranquil atmosphere that invites listeners to slow down and lose themselves in the music.

Esplanade is soft yet impactful, anchored by Baggs' unique blend of mellow guitar chords and tender, unhurried vocals. His delicate instrumentation and relaxed tempo create a kind of sonic stillness, allowing listeners to sink fully into the song. The single channels the influence of artists like Laufey and beabadoobee with its simple, introspective lyrics that convey emotion without overwhelming. Yet, Baggs adds his own flavour to the mix, a jazzy undercurrent that feels inspired by grentperez’s laid-back groove, making Esplanade a track that gently sways along, inviting listeners to join the flow.

This release also highlights Baggs’ evolution as an artist. While previous tracks showed a rawness characteristic of bedroom indie music, Esplanade signals a refinement in his production quality and a deeper exploration of mood and tone. The track’s light, jazzy influence gives it an airiness that suggests Baggs is expanding his musical palette. His growing confidence in his craft shows through, especially in the nuanced layering of guitar lines and his subtle use of reverb, which add depth without taking away from the song’s soothing simplicity.

Through Esplanade, Baggs offers a sensory experience that feels uniquely Singaporean. He captures the tranquillity of a riverside walk, mirroring the gentle sounds of the river Esplanade and the soft, jazz-tinged melodies wafting through the night air. The single feels like an invitation to escape, however briefly, into a world of peace and nostalgia. It’s an ode to small, quiet moments—perfectly encapsulating Baggs’ artistic aim to create "dreamy" indie tunes that resonate long after the final note fades.

Esplanade is a testament to Baggs’ ability to create music that feels both introspective and inviting. It’s a song for late-night musings, a soundtrack to a solitary walk, and a comforting reminder of the beauty in life’s quietest moments. For anyone looking to get lost in a moment of calm, Esplanade offers a gentle, jazzy reprieve—Baggs’ heartfelt contribution to the indie music scene.

Listeners looking for a tender, jazz-inspired sound will find a perfect companion in Esplanade. As Baggs continues to explore and experiment with his music, he is undoubtedly one to watch in Singapore’s growing indie music scene.