Eric Himan - Contenders

Buy Eric's album, Contenders, here (Eric's official store)

Some might pontificate that I'm a bit late to the party in terms of reviewing singer-songwriter Eric Himan's latest album Contenders. I would argue you can never shine enough spotlight on such accomplished bodies of work, particularly when they are by independent artists. Ultimately, it doesn't matter when or how you find out about Contenders, it just matters that you let it into your life and revel in every second of its insightful storytelling, all set to indelible hooks and sumptuous scores. Eric has crafted a sound which is saturated with influences from folk, Americana, country and soul yet blended it together in a way that totally belongs to Mr Himan. It is no wonder he has a loyal army of followers - if there is any justice, Contenders should swell those ranks quite easily...

It opens, as all good albums should, with a statement song which not only feels like his own declaration of independence but sets the scene for what follows. What I'm About is an unapologetic, rollicking good time which infuses the listener with a pep of energy and douses them in ferocious guitar licks, evocative use of bass and a finger clicking groove which is all too hard to resist. Eric's vocal is compelling, hooking you in from the first note to the last beat. It is a beguiling wall of sound that has you eager for more. And more is what you get as it slides effortlessly into Leave Nothing Behind. Eric tells a tale of embracing the opportunities in life rather than taking the more cautious path that may well be easier. This one really hits home - I'm a naturally super cautious person and soaring songs like this remind me of the importance of taking a chance (at least once in a while). His vocal is infectious, working in partnership with that pulsing percussion and strumming guitar. Another demonstrates what a natural raconteur Eric is - his ability to tap into inner emotions and long hidden memories of the listener shines bright like a star on songs like this. The simmering pot of feelings crescendos as the song progresses, Eric laying his heart on the line through impassioned vocal and an increasingly textured score. Every single second of the five minutes playing time is used to maximum effect. It is a true wonder to behold.

All You've Got To Give explores the dynamics of a relationship when one person desires more of their paramour but is left pondering whether there is anything other than they've already seen. Rather cleverly, Eric narrates the perspective of the person who is asked the eight word question of the chorus - and, particularly when his voice ascends the scale leading out of the verses, does so with a vulnerability and aching poignancy that you can almost reach out and touch it. Earth, Ashes and Dust slows the pace somewhat, really letting the lyrics breathe alongside the more stripped back instrumental. It is the devastating denouement of a love affair which has reached its natural conclusion for both people. There is sadness in both the melody and Eric's nuanced performance, but you are left with a sense of hope that this decision will lead to a brighter future for all involved. By design or not, Just Fine completes the trilogy of relationship songs and gives Eric the happy ending he deserves. The words he sings feel personal and insightful, an autobiographical tale of finding someone who complements you and pushes you to be the best you can be. His theme of taking life by the scruff is evident here, a reminder for all not to be passive passengers in your own adventure.

Over My Head has an instrumental accompaniment that accentuates the frisson of danger and the allure of the unknown of the title; situations we are drawn to yet oft wonder how we got into them in the first place. It may be the most mesmerising performance since Garth Brooks warned us all of how The Thunder Rolls. Eric is no less dynamic on this track and should be rewarded with equal success for such a dramatic delivery (but knowing how not to go over the top - which really is what makes this song outstanding). These Small Town Boys may be my new karaoke go-to (though I can promise you I won't sing it as well as Eric). Surely the cathartic nature of that freeing "fuck them all" is worth the price of admission alone. It is perhaps the most theatrical song on the album. You can imagine it being the euphoric comeback anthem in the second half of a musical - particularly the rapid fire performance in the middle 8. If it leaves you breathless and exhilarated then it has absolutely done its job. More or Less is exactly the style of song which should be shimmying up our pop charts right now. It has the most charming melody which Eric guides with a plaintive plea that would tug at the hardest of hearts. It is adult contemporary with an edge whilst being soulful with a touch of pathos. How could you not be completely smitten with such a song? Ah, then we come to the end of this ten track gift, Full Price being the final song. It is a sterling ballad for the ages - the type of composition which eschews trends and fads to focus on solid songwriting. This is your new favourite future oldie, a lesson to be passed from generation to generation. And the same can be said for Contenders. It makes you want to revisit the music over and over again. My recommendation - make sure you buy the music, tell everyone you've ever met, then stream the heck out of it so Eric can continue making albums like this.