London-based musician Hero. has released his newest single “REDWOOD” straight out of a dream pop lover’s fantasy. The song includes everything from groovy percussion to slow rhythmic synth that ties in just a touch of R&B.
The musical composition of the track blends multiple genres into a two-minute song. The synth plays at the alternative sound but the slower punchy drum melody really drives the R&B/dream pop sound we’ve seen emerging over the last two years. However, what truly stands out sonically is that vocally, Hero. isn’t doing a belty slow ballad with over-extended runs. It’s rather a talk-singing style that frees the lyrics from the actual melody. The speech is clear and crisp, matching the tone with layered pitched harmonies that truly marry the track together.
Lyrically, the song covers themes of infatuation and love. The lyrics express this deep attraction turned addiction for another person that is destined to turn into a self-destructive cycle. The song encapsulates the feeling of this love that, while beautiful and emotional, is still toxic. These underlying tones are clear with lyrics like “leave me to pick up the pieces / guessing it comes with the season / I hate you for so many reasons.” The lyrics play at having to play tug-of-war with the emotions of love and hate.
Overall, the song is bound to appeal to a large audience simply because of how well it blends multiple genres into one. Listeners of alt pop, dream pop, indie, R&B, or even bedroom pop might enjoy a listen to Hero.’s raw take on toxic love.
