There’s a distinct sense of identity about this release from songwriter Grant Smith. Broken Eyes offers up something completely new, an original sound, style and character, yet all the while taking snippets of influence from a number of different directions to make certain that the soundtrack works – which it undoubtedly does.
The song creates a certain ambiance and mood from the offset, which is built upon more and more as things progress. The instrumentation is the sort that removes the barriers between the electronic world and the somewhat more organic one, resulting in something that seems partly like an alt-folk offering and partly like an R&B classic with a twist. There’s a definite indie edge to it all that really works in its favour, and furthermore, Grant Smith’s leading voice and lyricism make for something incredibly soulful and fresh. You can hear the passion in his voice, rising at the right times, being more delicate when necessary – it makes up the bulk of that signature trait or sound that gives the music such a strong sense of identity.
The great thing about a song like this is that it lays bare the true creative behind it. There’s no sign of direct outside influence, the song expresses a certain sentiment, the raw emotion is powerful, and so it all comes through as very real and believable. The concept and the title are interesting enough to draw you in, though occasionally in pop music you get a unique title that stands simply to fit that idea of being unique – the song thereafter isn’t always as refreshing. In this case though, the songwriter categorically backs up the implication. The artistry of this style of performance and writing is beautiful to witness.
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