Despite being the band’s first-ever written song, “Submitted to Sin” showcases a remarkable maturity and emotional depth in its lyrics and melody. The simple instrumentation allows the listener to focus on the lyrics, which are expertly crafted and evoke strong feelings of nostalgia, regret, and heartbreak.
Fyfe’s production work is subtle and effective, adding just the right amount of atmospheric touches to the song without overwhelming the core acoustic sound. It’s a testament to Virens’ songwriting ability that they can create such a poignant and powerful song with just an acoustic guitar, vocals, and a few production touches.
Overall, “Submitted to Sin” is a beautiful and haunting debut from Virens, showcasing their talent for crafting emotionally resonant songs with a unique and personal touch. Fans of indie-folk and acoustic music will surely appreciate this stripped-back gem.