Renowned singer-songwriter Marsha Swanson kicks off 2025 with the hauntingly beautiful Like An Angel. Marking the one-year anniversary of her critically acclaimed album Near Life Experience, the single emerges as a deeply personal and ethereal reimagining of an untitled ghost track from the original record. With its rich instrumentation and poignant lyricism, Like An Angel stands as a testament to Swanson’s ability to craft music that resonates beyond the moment, offering solace and reflection.
Originally a hidden gem on Near Life Experience, Like An Angel has been brought into full bloom with a new recording, featuring a live band and a sweeping string section. This reimagined version enhances the song’s spiritual depth, transforming it into a cinematic soundscape that gently tugs at the heartstrings. The track’s accompanying music video, crafted by award-winning Iranian animator and director Sam Chegini, further elevates its emotional gravity, marking their fifth artistic collaboration.
“I wanted it to serve as an honouring or ode to those no longer with us whose philosophy or approach to life continues to influence and guide us in the present. It is a song about acceptance that is written from love about love.”
This sentiment is beautifully reflected in the song’s lush arrangements and Swanson’s signature vocal delivery—delicate yet deeply emotive.
The single was recorded at Echo Zoo Studios in Eastbourne under the skilled production of Henry (King Thumb) Thomas, known for his work with Randy Crawford and Paul Weller. Swanson is joined by an accomplished ensemble, including drummer Martyn Barker, guitarist Tony Qunta, and keyboardist Anders Olinder, whose contributions create a rich sonic foundation that enhances the song’s celestial quality.
Fans of Kate Bush and Tori Amos will find much to admire in Like An Angel. Its fusion of progressive pop and romantic realism results in a track that feels both nostalgic and timeless, a delicate balance that Swanson has mastered throughout her career. The single’s semi-finalist placement in the UK Songwriting Contest—alongside three other tracks from Near Life Experience—further solidifies its impact, underscoring Swanson’s continued excellence in songwriting.
As Near Life Experience continues to garner press and airplay, Like An Angel serves as both a celebration of the album’s legacy and a heartfelt gift to listeners. With its ethereal melodies, introspective themes, and lush instrumentation, Marsha Swanson once again proves why she remains a formidable presence in the realm of progressive pop. This is music that lingers long after the final note fades—a fitting tribute to love, loss, and the unseen forces that guide us through life.