Mark Rosal “Needle in a Haystack”

“Needle in a Haystack” may have been the most conflicted track in Mark Rosal’s song catalogue. Revolving around the best and worst of an intense, mystical love, Rosal delivers a rigidly passionate classic rock tune, “Needle in a Haystack” with warmth and optimism. Inspired by Bob Dylan, Bob Marley, Leonard Cohen and artists alike, the rocker combines his down-to-earth jingling guitar playing with introspective and meaningful storytelling, delivering listeners tunes with a promise of a good time.

Poured straight from the heart, the blazing track is stubbornly raw. With something this intense, words seem too vain, yet the rumbling nervousness tells the most moving tale. Vulnerable, direct lines like “Being here without you is the hardest thing I’ve ever done,” “Wish I could find out what was missing” and “Everything is broken an thin” tell you all about the aching and longing, stripped down to the most daring and confrontational confession.

Rosal’s unique introspective thinking is being reflected in the jingling guitarscape that carries the light and hope. Despite the pain and the intense feeling of not being able to be with this love, he still sees the beauty of this unexpected, mystical encounter. It’s a needle in a haystack, indescribable, unexplainable, rare, and precious — a gift from life itself.

The philosophical thoughts seem to be a recurring theme in Rosal’s music. In “Needle in a Haystack,” it comes into play in a more subconscious, intuitive manner. His Bob Dylan-style vocal can’t help but having a pinch of urgency and joy to it. Almost like an unstoppable force that sweep you off of your feet with happiness, there’s so much hope and joy, looking forward to the union.