I do love a bit of Eric Saade I do. Over 3 years, he's delivered 3 albums of sparkling, bombastic, catchy pop - and often matched those with visually stunning videos & energetic, vibrant tours. As Saade Vol.2 drew to a close, the world was treated to new Eric music late last year with the double A side single Marching (In The Name of Love)/Miss Unknown. These tunes represented somewhat of a departure for Eric - a mellowing of musical style, a maturing of artistry. They may not have been as in-your-face poptastic as ManBoy, Popular or Hotter Than Fire, but (particularly Marching) they were ultimately no less satisfying or catchy - just in different ways. Coming Home (both the single and the EP) represent a continuation of that musical development. It's fair to say that no artist remains the same for ever and Eric takes forward his knack for churning out an infectious melody, some of the electro-pop vibes of his previous music and presents it in a new setting. As a prelude to his new Forgive Me album, it's a clear indication of what is forthcoming - here's what I make of it all so far...
- Till I Break ~ a dramatic intro leads to pogo-ing synths, a shuffling beat and a wistful, seductive vocal from the young fella himself. It's actually quite a sad, mid-tempo number - the synths represent the robotic nature of when an individual just goes through the motions in their daily life with the percolating beat mirroring the pain that always remains no matter what happens. I do appreciate when song instrumentals play a part in the story telling - it sets it up perfectly for Eric's vocal which at times is fragile & delicate, other times powerful & an instrument in itself to push the pain out. A cleverly produced song that reveals hidden layers with each listen...
- Forgive Me ~ The forthcoming album title track is a lovely, understated ballad that perhaps is his most affective piece of work since the soaring Break of Dawn. Personal, reflective lyrics are sung with impassioned conviction, but are never overwrought. Less is definitely more here and the subtle instrumentation in the verses works a treat. What that also achieves is ensuring that the chorus stands out as a mellifluous, flowing treat that embeds in your brain, with a repetitive refrain become a heartfelt plea for a second chance. PS, the middle 8 is one of the most raw & honest things you'll hear this side of Olly Murs' Dear Darlin' - exhibiting grace and humility. Lush...
- Coming Home ~ Coming Home is a genuinely emotive lovely song that reflects on the true connection between two people & how wherever you are, as long as you are with that person you feel like you are where you belong. In that respect, it's almost his lyrical Super Trooper - and I suspect this would make a lovely piano ballad (please). What you get is a guitar driven, mid-tempo treat that mixes the r'n'b influences of Miss Unknown & mixes them with synth drenched, big percussive choruses of songs like Hearts In The Air and Marching. There are at least 3 different hooks for you to get your singing chops around, and talking of which - the song demonstrates Eric's vocal ability with grace and ease. He sounds splendid. It's a great first single from his forthcoming album - it pays attention to his past while moving his musical direction forward in a way that is subtle & ingratiating all at once.
- Cover Girl Part II ~ Ooo if this is Eric getting down with his bad self, then my safe word is "YES PLEASE". It's Eric doing his brand of pop 80s style - artfully blending influences like Michael Jackson, New Kids On The Block and even a bit of Earth Wind & Fire. The result is one of pop's most dizzying treats so far this year. Bubbling synths, clever, witty lyrics & pop culture references abounding all make this an utter delight - but it's Eric's gleeful vocals that make this track a real stand out. Certainly his most out and out pop effort on here and one that has me swooning with anticipation for more... ACES...
- Winning Ground ~ Not on the EP (or album as far as I know) but certainly worthy of your attention. Winning Ground is the official anthem of UEFA Women's Euro 2013 (something to do with football, footie fans) and anthem just about sums it up. Any sports related tuneage needs to have the fans chanting in the stands & this tune will certainly have the masses on side. With a beat that Shakira's Waka Waka would be jealous of, the lyrics are all inspiring, get-back-up-and-achieve motivation with a sky-bound chorus (with big ol' whoa oh oh's running behind it) that's all too hard to resist. This is the type of song they use with loads of amazing clips (either sport or X Factor related :P) to show how brilliant the past season has been. Oh and that middle 8 is a whole new chorus in itself. Genius.
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