In a world where love is often portrayed in grand, sweeping gestures, “Tonneau – Like Lovers Do” embraces the quiet complexities of relationships—the longing, the pride, and the delicate balance between holding on and letting go. Created in Tonneau’s studio in Amsterdam, this acoustic folk ballad is deeply intimate, a heartfelt whisper rather than a loud declaration.
Ton van Dijk (Tonneau) delivers an understated yet evocative performance, his voice carrying the weight of unresolved emotions. The lyrics “Come love, love me like the very first time” serve as both an invitation and a plea, capturing the universal struggle of rekindling lost intimacy.
The instrumentation is deceptively simple but deeply layered. Jan van der Hoeven’s pizzicato violin adds a delicate, almost hesitant texture, mirroring the uncertainty within the song’s narrative. Alies van der Hoeven’s violins weave an emotional undertow, while René de Vries’ vibraphone introduces a dreamlike atmosphere, subtly lifting the track beyond its folk roots.
What makes “Tonneau – Like Lovers Do” truly stand out is its restraint. Instead of relying on overproduction, the song leans into its raw authenticity, allowing space for every note to breathe. It’s reminiscent of the minimalist yet emotionally charged storytelling of artists like Nick Drake or Damien Rice.
This is a song for quiet nights, for lovers lost in thought, for those searching for a way back to something they once had. “Tonneau – Like Lovers Do” proves that sometimes, the most profound emotions are found in the softest melodies.
Stream “Tonneau – Like Lovers Do” on Spotify here:
