Jonny Ong “Don't Wake Me From This Dream”

“Don’t Wake Me From This Dream” drops in your ears with a blast of energy, transcending listeners into a fictitious world where the lingering feelings of 60s’ nostalgia radiates eclectic, modern euphoria. Tackling desire and passion that grows on the barren ground of a deserted island, Jonny Ong brings forth a surprisingly rich and dynamic blend of sonic landscapes. “Don’t Wake Me From This Dream” is by all means special and unforgettable.

Ong’s love for a rich live sound meets his uncompromising passion of jazz in “Don’t Wake Me From This Dream.” It’s weaved into the undertone, appearing like a phantom in between verses and chorus. The swelling strings and juicy saxophone carries a certain nostalgia, like an impression that seems unshakable in the “dream.” The classic, psychedelic-fused sound from the 60s also lives within the track like a ghost.

On the surface, “Don’t Wake Me From This Dream” is fierce and warm. The foot-tapping track fuse hand claps, climactic chorus and infectious melodies into such a high and memorable moment. The choruses are perfect for singalongs. You could picture everyone in the stadium being bonded by the same melodies, sharing the memory of an unforgettable night. The atmosphere is intoxicating. Like a dream that you don’t ever want to wake up from, it highlights all the best feelings. As the track deepens, it heats up the air as it keeps on elevating.

“Don’t Wake Me From This Dream” is meant to memorable. Ong’s own spirited energy becomes the track’s personality, but underneath it, the influences, the desires and love permeate the guitarscape, transcending it into a more sensuous, nuanced experience.