The melodies of the seasons change along with the weather: spring rains wash away the remnants of winter, summer sun warms the earth and souls, autumn brings nostalgia, and winter covers everything with a snowy blanket under which dreams and memories lie hidden. Thus, our lives are subject to endless cycles of change, where joy gives way to sorrow, love transitions into loss, and time, relentless and majestic, weaves into the fabric of our existence.

photos by @will.fm

This poignant exploration of love, loss, and the passage of time is vividly expressed in Sam Setton’s debut album “8 Years New Tears”. Sam Setton is a talented singer-songwriter from New York who creates atmospheric electro-pop music with a melancholic hue. Sam’s slightly husky yet sensual vocals harmonize seamlessly with warm electronic sounds.
Sam began writing and recording his first songs as a teenager, but his true musical career took off recently when he decided to experiment with a new style and wrote a song to once again capture the attention of his ex-girlfriend. “8 Years New Tears” intertwines ten stories that speak of sorrow yet leave room for hope. In each song, the musician reflects on the complexities of finding new meanings and all shades of pain.

The first track on the album, “8 Years, New Tears,” creates a warm atmosphere that warms the heart. The music seems to narrate a story filled with memories that deeply resonate. It feels like listening to a loved one’s confession about how time changes everything, yet certain moments remain vivid in memory.

From the gentle guitar playing at the beginning, creating a cozy atmosphere, to Sam’s sweet and tender vocals adding elegance to the song, each element contributes to its charm. Following this start, the song “TLV” brings an ethnic sound and brings listeners closer to the East. The melodies flow like halva, soothing like a summer breeze, evoking dreams of caravans drifting across dunes. In “TLV,” the East meets the West, creating a spine-tingling atmosphere.

Then, the track “Pain Me 4ever” serves as a dark and deeply reflection on emotional pain. Sam Setton managed to emphasize the importance and pain of these feelings through a leisurely melody and his stunning vocals.

The oppressive atmosphere of the initial chords and melancholic vocals convey a sense of hopelessness, illustrating how deep emotions can be. As the track progresses, the atmosphere gradually takes on brighter hues, symbolizing inner transformation and acceptance. The light guitar playing in the background conjures images of a forest with tall trees seemingly reaching the sky. The final part of the song sounds more optimistic, reflecting hope even in life’s darkest moments. This very positive and sunny moment is preserved almost until the end of the album.

I like how “Colour” stands out with its positive lightness. The song begins with simple accompaniment that complements Sam Setton’s vocals perfectly, creating an atmosphere of tranquility. The melody is easily memorable, and Sam Setton’s emotional delivery instills confidence that everyone can find their shades of joy.

Then, the track “Mexico” hypnotically charges with its energy. The brightness of the beat, the tenderness of Sam Setton’s vocals, and the light keys create an atmosphere of complete tranquility. It’s as if the process of rebirth of feelings concludes towards the album’s finale and expresses itself with the ease of sound. I like how Sam Setton plays with the atmosphere and feelings, as already in the next track “Being w You” a secluded atmosphere and as if a raw guitar sound return us to the intimate setting of the album. It’s as if after the sunset, a captivating intimate night by the sea has begun. This stunning cascade of emotions emphasizes the musician’s ability to create personal and emotional music.

photos by @will.fm

The final track “Move to Spain,” with its light, almost ephemeral melody complemented by the smooth vocals of Sam Setton, is stylish and carefree, almost misty. It seems to offer hope for the future and suggests that there is always a way out and hope for a new beginning.

Sam Setton’s debut album is a meaningful piece brimming with feeling. In each track, through misty pop tones, the soul of Sam Setton resonates, along with his personal views on pain and trials. Sam Setton offers each listener a cozy space where one can discuss sensual and intimate topics, while always leaving room for hope. I absolutely recommend everyone to listen to “8 Years New Tears,” available on all digital platforms. From this moment, a new chapter of your life may begin!

“8 Years New Tears” is available on all major streaming platforms.

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