Imagine a snowy winter evening, a crackling fire, and the tender embrace of a cherished memory. Riverwoods, the collaborative project spearheaded by Swedish songwriter Jimmy Granstrom, achieves just that in their latest single, When We Were Small. Known for his knack for crafting emotive melodies and lyrical depth, Jimmy collaborates with talented artists to breathe life into his compositions. This time, the warm and crystalline vocals of Jeanette Bengtsson take center stage, offering listeners a heartfelt journey through the soft lens of childhood nostalgia.
Jimmy Granstrom’s creative pedigree includes notable airplay across Swedish radio and the Portland Radio Project (PRP) in the United States. His work with Project Earthbridge and co-written tracks like Stranger With My Face have resonated globally, reaching audiences from Sweden to Uganda. It’s this blend of international reach and deeply personal songwriting that sets Riverwoods apart.
In When We Were Small, Jeanette Bengtsson’s vocal performance is nothing short of exquisite. Her voice has an innate ability to balance warmth and precision, evoking the coziness of childhood winters while carrying an undercurrent of wistfulness. Drawing from her live performance experience, she delivers the song’s emotional core effortlessly, ensuring it never veers into saccharine territory.
The production and instrumentation further elevate the song’s charm. A lively yet gentle acoustic guitar serves as the heartbeat, weaving a rhythmic tapestry that feels both grounding and uplifting. Subtle folk elements and delicate harmonies create an open, organic soundscape that complements the song’s reflective tone. The mix strikes a perfect balance—each element feels intentional, allowing the lyrics and vocals to shine without distraction.
When We Were Small isn’t just a song; it’s a sensory experience that calls to anyone who’s ever paused to remember the simplicity of childhood joys. Riverwoods has crafted a tune that feels like a personal story shared by a friend over a cup of hot cocoa. It’s a testament to Jimmy Granstrom’s vision and the power of collaboration, reminding us that music’s greatest strength lies in its ability to connect us to ourselves and one another.
Listen to “When We Were Small” on Spotify
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