Yes - Molly Devine

Published

5-12-2025

Type of Work

Creative Work - Music

Advisors and Contributors

Writer - Molly Devine Master owner - Molly Devine Producer - Greg Haver Engineer - Scott Seabright Mixing Engineer - Clint Murphy Mastering - Ryan Smith Performers Vocals - Molly Devine Guitar - Tom Healey Piano / keyboards - Stephen Small Bass - Marika Hodgson Drums - Greg Haver

Abstract

This creative practice research output presents the single "Yes," an original soul- and blues-infused composition that explores themes of desire, self-permission, and uninhibited expression. Grounded in a methodology of collaborative music production and spontaneous performance, the project investigates how structural restraint can be leveraged to maximize emotional resonance and dynamic contrast.

Produced in collaboration with industry veterans Greg Haver (production) and Stephen Small (Hammond organ), the track's arrangement intentionally mimics a fluid trajectory—moving from an intimate, minimalist opening to a dense, uninhibited "waterfall" crescendo before returning to a tranquil resolution. A key focus of the research was the interrogation of vocal authenticity and spontaneity; this was realized through the incorporation of unscripted, high-intensity ad-libs recorded in a high-pressure, single-session environment to achieve a sense of "reckless abandon."

By balancing rigorous studio arrangement with raw, improvisational performance, "Yes" contributes to contemporary discussions on vocal production, genre hybridization (blues, soul, and indie-pop), and the sonic translation of psychological liberation within independent Aotearoa music.

Citation

Devine, M. J. (2025). *Yes* [Creative Work - Audio]. On *Yes*. Independent / Distrokid. https://open.spotify.com/track/20haxqTTISA0HNeSr7NYLh

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