This track, Tiny Flame, induces such sweet, heart-warming sentiments, and it does so without fanfare or cheap thrills. I just love the modest, tranquil sound of this gentle song – you’ve really only got a strummed electric guitar and those lovely female harmonies. Such is the song’s warmth and tenderness that it’s hard not to be swept up in it; it makes your heart melt – at least it does mine. I could happily have it on repeat for a good while.
It reminds me of the charm and suavity of music from the bygone era of the ’50s and early ’60s – songs like Angel Baby by Rosie and the Originals and My Happiness by Connie Francis. Obviously, nothing can encroach on those classics, but fast-forward 60 years and imagine a minimalist reinterpretation of that genre and era, and you might get something like Tiny Flame.
Not only that, but I can easily imagine a song like this – and the disposition it evokes – fitting snugly into a Wes Anderson soundtrack, something along the lines of The Royal Tenenbaums or Rushmore.
I first heard Tiny Flame at Christian’s Music Musings. So I’ll turn it over to him – he won’t mind:
The Softies are an indie duo of singer and guitarist Rose Melberg and Jen Sbragia, who are known for their minimal approach to pop music. They first came together in 1994 in what was intended to be a side project for both artists. During their initial run until 2000, they released three studio albums and a series of singles and EPs. After 24 years, The Softies are back with a new album titled The Bed I Made. Here’s Tiny Flame. I love the gorgeous harmony singing, which is accentuated by the bare bones electric guitar accompaniment.
It started with a tiny flame
And ended in tears
I hadn’t felt that way in years
It left a mark upon my heart
I’ll have to explain
Every time I try to love again
Baby, when you think of me
Don’t forget
We could have been something
Maybe there’s a different life
Waiting for me
Where you’re just a hazy memory
It started with a tiny flame
But ended okay
You know I’ll always love you in some way
Baby, when you think of me
Don’t forget
We could have been somеthing
Set a fire
Let it burn
And start again
“The more I live, the more I learn. The more I learn, the more I realize, the less I know.”- Michel Legrand
Observation Blogger 
Thanks for the shoutout, Matt, and reminding me of The Softies and that song. While I had cheerfully forgotten about “Tiny Flame,” I still enjoy it and fully stand behind my previous words from August 2024 you kindly quoted! 🙂
I just feel grateful to be able to hear such fine new modern music – which also harps back to the bygones. So my hats off to you sir.