If you want to read or listen to stories but novels and other literature pieces might be time-consuming, listening to music is one of the alternative ways to do so. With this, you can passively listen to it, like a podcast, while doing chores or other work. Songs are also rich in figurative language and other benefits of reading. Every tune, every rhyme, and every word used in songs has a story to tell.
That’s what Sam Setton’s debut album 8 Years New Tears was composed of. It depicts a sad journey and exploration of love, loss, and time. It is an anthology of ten songs that interconnect with one another. It contains stories of heartbreaks, longing, and craving for emotional regrowth, with each chapter telling a deeply personal story.
The first song off the album is entitled “8 Years New Tears”. This song acts as a foundation for the album as a whole. Maybe that’s why the album title is the same as this track. It tackles themes of emotional and reflectional depth that will soon later on reflect on the rest of the album. Its haunting melodies and poignant lyrics immediately draw listeners into Sam Setton’s world, where love and pain are intertwined.
The songs “TLV” and “New Emotions” share the same themes of feeling the excitement and uncertainty of opening up to new experiences even though TLV leans more toward giving the vibe of vibrant nostalgia and New Emotions leans more toward explorations of complex emotions. The former brings you to a place filled with memories and a longing for the past. The latter on the other hand navigates the intricate landscape of fresh feelings and the challenges of embracing change. These two tracks capture the essence of personal growth and the bittersweet nature of moving forward.
“Obsessed!” is a high-energy track that stands out because of its intense portrayal of infatuation. Its prominent feature is its driving beat and passionate lyrics that convey the overwhelming feeling of being consumed by desire, making it a stand-out track in the album. A contrast from this track comes “Pain Me 4ever”. This track offers a raw and somber reflection on enduring heartache. The highlight of this track is its melancholic melodies and introspective lyrics that highlight the lingering pain of lost love, resonating deeply with anyone who has experienced heartbreak.
This next track brings a tender sense of vulnerability and hope for new love. “My Heart Could Be Yours” is a beautiful contrast to all the themes of the songs mentioned formerly which delves more into darker themes. This track offers a glimpse of optimism and opens the possibility of healing. Its gentle melodies serve as a lullaby, and that’s exactly why it was a standout ballad, showcasing Setton’s ability to convey deep emotions through his music.
“Colour” is that track that lives up to its name. Its vibrant vibe symbolizes rediscovering joy and the beauty of life. It gives off an infectious energy and catchy chorus that makes its listeners feel good.
“Mexico” brings the listeners to a place of comfort and peacefulness. This song reach the heart of finding peace and rebirth. The calm music and suggestive lyrics make a sense of illusion allowing the listeners to temporarily leave their worries behind.
“Being w You” is a warm celebration of being with someone dear to you. The soothing melody and lyrics bring the beauty of fellowship and the simple joy of sharing moments with the people you love. It serves as a reminder of the significance of human relation and the joy that it can give.
Closing the album is “Move To Spain”, a reflective and hopeful song concerning creating fresh start and searching new perspective. This song is a perfect ender for the bunch, most especially because of its themes about journey to self-discovery and for encapsulating the courage to embrace change.
8 Years New Tears is a richly textured album that takes listeners on a heartfelt journey through the ups and downs of love and life. Sam Setton’s emotive vocals and poignant songwriting create a resonant and deeply moving experience. Each track offers a unique perspective on the complexities of human emotion, leaving listeners both reflective and hopeful by the album’s end. This debut album is a testament to Sam Setton’s talent as a storyteller and his ability to connect with listeners on a profound level.
If you want to experience this album, go check it out on varying music streaming platforms, and make sure to give Sam Setton a follow on his social media platforms as well.
Connect with Sam Setton
About the Author
Angel Mariah Rodiel – Mari to the people she’s fond of – is a BA Literature student currently studying in Central Luzon State University. Writing, arts, and music are some of the things she’s been most passionate about ever since she was a kid. Mari’s little dream is to build a band that will open for Paramore’s concert someday. Pop-punk and alternative rock are her comfort music genres, K-pop and J-rock comes close as third and fourth.
