A Failed Driving Test Becomes Something Bigger
Prem Byrne’s “How Life Is” begins at the DMV. An older man fails his driving test, loses his licence, and insists the examiner got it wrong. It’s an ordinary story, and a slightly funny one. Byrne lets it unfold without forcing the meaning.
Musically, the track sits between indie folk and soft rock. Its acoustic foundation feels warm and unhurried, while the light percussion gives it a natural sway. Byrne’s soothing vocals lie gently over the music. He sings with restraint, keeping the delivery conversational even when the lyrics turn towards ageing and mortality.
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There also appears to be a flute, or at least a flute-like woodwind, drifting through the background. It’s a lovely detail. The instrument adds air to the track and softens the spaces between the vocal lines without becoming too prominent. Small melodic touches appear and disappear around Byrne’s voice, giving the song movement while preserving its intimate feel.
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Finding Humour in the Inevitable
The restrained production works well against the song’s humour. Byrne never makes the punchlines sound like punchlines. His calm delivery allows them to land on their own, particularly when the song reaches its central thought: wherever we’re all going, we won’t need a car.
The recurring chorus gives “How Life Is” an easy, singable shape. Its melody settles in quickly, helped by the gentle rhythm and Byrne’s relaxed phrasing. Even as the lyrics grow darker, the music remains comforting.
“How Life Is” doesn’t rely on a dramatic build or an oversized vocal performance. It stays soft, melodic and remarkably steady. That’s exactly where its charm lies.
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