An Engaging Exploration of Life & Loss: On SAID SARA’s ‘Then There You Are’

David Benson, known to the music world as Said Sara recently released ‘Then There You Are,’ a track about listening to your feelings and finding the answers in nature and in the stars.

The greats of the ’70s influenced Benson when he was a child: Cat Stevens, Jim Croce, James Taylor, and Lindsey Buckingham. In spite of that, he retains a strong sense of metal and punk in his music, a quality that defines his unique sound. A good example of this is ‘Then There You Are,’ which combines acoustic melodies with raw elements derived from his influences.

With Said Sara, there is a great deal of soulful slickness that takes things into the shimmering world of folk, country-pop. The track, however, is introspective, featuring dark and stripped-down hymns that create a sound that is both nostalgic and refreshing. A beautiful journey through Benson’s psyche, if you will.

Benson opens with lifting vocals and gentle acoustics, while sparing lyricism underscores his lucidity. It is easy to identify the kindness and compassion he possesses in his writing, whether he is writing about himself or about others, as well as the magic he weaves with his guitar, a hallmark of Said Sara’s music. As if to prove the point, ‘Then There You Are’ showcases everything the artist is about. Sublime and meticulous guitar work is the core around which the song is built, but one cannot deny Benson’s staggering vocals and storytelling.

Benson’s lyrics are honest and heartfelt, reflecting on loss and self-discovery. His vocals are captivating, with a powerful yet vulnerable tone that pulls the listener in. The result is a track that is both comforting and uplifting.

There is so much to enjoy on this song, and repeated listening unveils a level on a level of depth that is richly rewarding. Time-worn and tailored, ‘Then There You Are’ is the measure of a man in full dedication to his craft. With this track, he has demonstrated once again his talents as a singer-songwriter and the album does nothing but enhance his already well-established reputation as a darling of the folk circuit.