Winnipeg singer-songwriter Tommy Douglas Keenan crafts songs of heartache, longing, and humour—none more so than his latest single, “Oh Melody,” a woozy, late-night reflection on an intoxicating, ephemeral connection. The song captures the sweetness and sadness of a romance that was never meant to last, living only in the perfect moment.

Originally written for a “song every week” club, “Oh Melody” took on new life in collaboration with Matt Peters (Begonia, Royal Canoe, Dead Men). Recorded with Peters’ vast collection of sonic toys, the track features ethereal guitar, soaring synths, and the mesmerizing guest vocals of Natalie Bohrn (Slow Spirit), whose counterpoint melodies heighten the song’s dreamlike quality.

I wanted the backup vocalist to take a front seat, improvising a melody while I repeat the first verse in duet with her. The counterpoint of the two voices suggests two people having separate experiences that harmonize for the moment. They know they’re not going home together—so this is all they’ve got. – Tommy Douglas Keenan