MUSIC FOR YOUR EARS Discover the REVIEW of Summer of 85 By Wally Bartfay and Stephen Wrench

Summer of 85 by Wally Bartfay and Stephen Wrench is a heartfelt, nostalgic treasure that
conveys the tender ache of revisiting a long-lost love. At its core, the track tells a deeply
personal story: a man flipping through old photographs, stumbling across the image of
his first true love, and suddenly being transported back to the sun-drenched, emotionally
charged days of that defining summer. It’s a theme that speaks to shared human
experience, yet the delivery here feels strikingly intimate and unique.
From the opening notes, the song establishes a warm sonic palette built on rich, twangy
guitar lines, steady percussion, and a delicate fiddle that underscores the song’s
emotional depth. The instrumental arrangement is lush without being overwhelming —
every element is placed with precision, offering ample room for the vocals to shine. The
guitar work, in particular, is a highlight — crisp, melodically engaging, and full of
heart. It’s not flashy, but it carries an emotional weight that perfectly mirrors the song’s
lyrical journey.
Stephen, a decorated artist with six Grammy wins and over 50 Gold and Platinum
records under his belt, brings a level of polish and depth to the track that’s impossible to
ignore. His performance is complemented beautifully by Wally Bartfay’s vocals — raw,
gravelly, and deeply expressive. Together, their delivery feels genuine and lived-in, as
though this story isn’t just imagined, but drawn from real moments of yearning and
emotional connection.
Lyrically, Summer of 85 strikes a rare balance between vivid storytelling and poetic
restraint. The narrative is clear, yet filled with evocative lines that leave a lasting
impression. There’s a universal longing here — for youth, for love, for the past — that
sneaks up on you and and stays with you long after the final chord fades. The chorus is
especially powerful, both melodically and emotionally. It’s the kind of refrain you find
yourself humming hours later, not just because it’s catchy, but because it carries a
weight of meaning.
The production is nothing short of top-tier. Mixed by Wayne Killus and mastered by
Robyn Robbins, a founding member of Bob Seger’s Silver Bullet Band, the sound is
crisp, well-balanced, and emotionally impactful. Every nuance, from the shimmering
guitar licks to the subtle brush of drums, is rendered with clarity and care. It’s evident
that this is a labour of love from artists who understand the power of storytelling
through sound.
What elevates the track even further is its emotional complexity. It’s not just a sweet
recollection of young romance; it’s a meditation on the passage of time and the
bittersweet nature of memory. The song manages to evoke both joy and melancholy in
equal measure, which is no small feat. It invites the listener not just to remember their
own ‘summer of ’85’ — whatever year that may have been — but to reflect on the
people and moments that shaped them.

Despite being a debut collaboration for Wally Bartfay in the spotlight, Summer of 85
arrives with the assurance of seasoned pros. It’s already making waves on the indie
scene, climbing to No. 7 on the Euro Indie Network Music Chart and No. 6 on The
World Indie Top 100 as of February 26, 2025 — a well-deserved recognition for such a
stirring release.
Ultimately, Summer of 85 isn’t just a song — it’s a vivid, cinematic experience. It
conjures sunsets, long drives, whispered promises, and the ache of things left unsaid.
For fans of country and country rock, this track is a rare treat: musically compelling,
lyrically profound, and emotionally true. It’s an exceptional piece that stands tall as both
a memory and a new classic.
A soul-tugging, expertly crafted country ballad that lingers like a beloved photograph
pulled from an old box. Don’t miss it.

Review made by Lucy Cicioni | Promoted by Musik & Film, MAF Music Promotion www.musikandfilm.com