Aonia are pleased to announce an upcoming acoustic version of their poignant ballad, ‘If You Dare’. The ninth track on the band’s debut album (‘The Seven’), ‘If You Dare’ is based on an Italian song called ‘Vivere,’ which loosely translates to ‘Dare to Live’. The acoustic track also marks guitarist Stuart’s recording debut with Aonia.
Why have Aonia decided to release the stripped-back version of ‘If You Dare’ now?
Quite simply, with the UK in a second lockdown, with the nights drawing in, and with the weather turning for the worse, the song’s lyrics and message are incredibly meaningful.
About the lyrics, Jo says, ‘In our lives, there are times when we feel we can’t go on – no way out, no solutions. I wanted the song to speak to those people, to the man or woman who is “on his knees” or “on her knees” to encourage them to go on. I want to say: you will get through this. It’s not going to be forever. You can go on. One of the final lyrics in the song is “step into the fire.” At the minute, with the current times we are in, this is more important than ever before. There are restrictions; there are barriers to many things – relationships, working – it’s all pretty messed up in the world at the minute. But we need to learn to adapt to the things around us and deal with the things that we can control, rather than the things that we’re not able to.’
Why have the band decided to release an acoustic version of the song – and how will it differ to the version on ‘The Seven’?
Acoustically, a lot of space is created, allowing the vocals and the lyrics to really take centre stage. The bass and guitar create a warmer atmosphere, cushioning the vocals, and the simpler keys draw it all together into a neat package. The acoustic version is also in a lower key (B-minor, rather than C-sharp-minor), which creates a more plaintive feel. The stripped-back production also allows for a more emotive and raw performance from all the Aonia musicians.
The band have nearly finished recording the re-imagined song. Unfortunately, Mel was recently diagnosed with Covid-19, which has affected her breathing and vocal tone. As soon as she is fully healed, she will record her vocals and the band will be able to announce a release date for the track.
‘If You Dare – Acoustic’ will be available digitally on the band’s website (www.aoniaband.co.uk) and on all major download and streaming services. 50% of the track’s sales will benefit MIND Charity, who have been working tirelessly throughout the pandemic to support people suffering from mental health challenges related to Covid-19.