The New Citizen Kane rounds up his mastery for introspective storytelling dealing with the complexities of love, sorrow and the haunting “what ifs” that haunt us after the relationship has ended with the release of his latest EP “Could Have Been.” Title track opens wistfully, setting the tone for an inky indie-pop weave of dreamy atmospherics with chillest of chillwave.
The achingly raw vocals carry the sharpest vision of love left standing but the bitter sweet phantom of the love left unclaimed, the wondrous aching longing for what could have been. Kane’s production seamlessly bridges genres throughout, atmospheric textures and pulsing electronic beats support the emotional weight. Where Kane really shines are the introspective depths of songs like the equally infectious ‘Forget The World,’ but the upbeat stuff like that is catchy enough to keep the euphoria of new love from fading into oblivion.
The deep ache and the yearning, both present in his work, is captured in “Chasing The Past”, which brings heartache with visceral richness through bold vocal effects, and in the delicate balance of hope amidst doubt in “Tonight, Maybe”. The heart of the EP is still in Kane’s skilled storytelling, but that central purpose is elevated by an electrifying highlight in the form of Kane’s unique cover of Coldplay’s ‘Talk,’ that turns the era’s classic into a pulsing, re-ignited dance anthem.
Using personal experiences and universally shared themes, he weaves each one together into a full palette of emotions with each narrative vignette. But perhaps most impressive is his willingness to confront vulnerability on his own terms, with authenticity, a hallmark of his artistry and songcraft in an age saturated with fleeting trends, ‘Could Have Been’ is a nice reminder that honest introspection has just as much of an effect well into the 21st century. Whether you’re rediscovering old loves or trying to cope with your own pain, this soul stirring EP is a must listen, a lesson in how to turn mourning into moving art.
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