Brendan McNamara’s musical project Extra Time offers something special for listeners seeking music with depth. Their latest release, “The Boy Who Dreamed of The Stars,” is a delicate and soul-stirring track that unflinchingly addresses the subject of child abuse—a theme not often explored with such emotional nuance. With McNamara at the helm, Extra Time transforms this sensitive topic into an evocative narrative that is as painful as it is healing.
The song’s gentle instrumental build-up pulls us in right from the start, setting the stage for soft, almost whisper-like vocals that cradle our emotions. The arrangement, featuring tender piano lines and understated strings, creates an atmosphere of fragility, mirroring the vulnerability of the story. McNamara’s vocal delivery is haunting and pure, capturing the inner turmoil and dreams of a young boy trying to escape a world of pain.
What stands out most is the song’s pacing and production. It doesn’t rush, allowing each word and note to breathe and resonate. The production is intimate, leaving space for the lyrics to shine, while subtle shifts in dynamics and instrumentation—such as the gentle rise of strings—add emotional weight without overwhelming the listener.
Accompanied by an equally poignant animated video by Gabriel Gareso, “The Boy Who Dreamed of The Stars” is more than just a song; it’s a heartfelt plea for empathy and understanding. This is the kind of music that stays with you, gently reminding you of the power of dreams in the face of darkness.
Listen to “The Boy Who Dreamed of The Stars” on Spotify and watch the video with the above link
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