Irish singer-songwriter Robert O’Connor has captivated us again with his latest single, “Something Strange,” released on October 11. This new offering follows the success of his summer hit, “Everything You Wanted,” which marked a significant milestone in his career with over 60,000 streams on Spotify and over 500 playlist placements. O’Connor, whom we last had the pleasure of interviewing in 2022 during the release of his Severance EP, continues to evolve as an artist, and “Something Strange” is a testament to that growth. Let’s find out how strange this song is.
Starting on a calming note, the song gradually rises while keeping its immersive sonic nature alive. As listeners, we are greeted by shimmering synths gliding effortlessly through the air, creating an ethereal soundscape that draws us in. This lush electronic backdrop sets the stage perfectly for O’Connor’s crystalline vocals, which soon follow. The contrast between the synths and his voice enhances the song’s optimism and warmth, ushering us into a space of reflection and newfound joy. The opening lines, “Been so long on cruise control, I thought that life had taken its toll on me,” encapsulate the song’s central theme of transformation. Here, O’Connor invites us to share in the journey of self-discovery, hinting at a past filled with stagnation and uncertainty. The imagery of “swimming against the tide” evokes struggle, emphasizing how long he felt adrift before encountering the love that would ultimately change everything.
As the song progresses, the lyrics continue to explore this sentiment, as O’Connor recalls a moment of clarity—sitting by a rooftop pool in Barcelona, he found himself overwhelmed by a “wave of contentment.” The way he captures this bliss is palpable, and it resonates throughout the track, making us feel as if we, too, are basking in the sun’s embrace. Robert’s line, “There you were in front of me, oh how could I have failed to see,” highlights the significance of love and connection as transformative forces in his life.
Vocally, O’Connor’s performance is stunning. His delivery is powerful and tender, effortlessly conveying the excitement of newfound love while retaining a sense of vulnerability. The chorus, with its anthemic quality—“something’s changed for the better, and now I know that we’re forever” becomes a rallying cry for those who have experienced similar shifts in our lives. Also, the repetition of “something strange in the water” reminds us of the enigmatic nature of love and its ability to empower us, evoking a sense of curiosity and exploration.
Moving on to the production masterfully helmed by long-time collaborator Gareth Shortland, he infuses the track with a vibrant energy. The fast-paced tempo complements the beautiful drumming, propelling us forward with an infectious rhythm. Every element, from the layered synths to the rhythmic beats, works in harmony to create a sophisticated slice of synth-pop that lingers long after the song has finished.
As the track drew to a close, I was left with a sense of longing for what will come next. The promise of an elaborate 6-minute extended mix and an acoustic version, produced by Jordan Arteaga foreshadows even more depth to this narrative. With an accompanying music video directed by Kapture Lab, the full experience of “Something Strange” is yet to resonate even further.
In conclusion, Robert O’Connor’s “Something Strange” is a beautiful exploration of change, love, and the profound moments that can alter our paths. With its shimmering synths, powerful lyrics, and evocative delivery, this single stands out as a compelling addition to O’Connor’s discography, paving the way for what promises to be an exciting upcoming album. This song isn’t just a moment; it’s a movement; a celebration of life’s unpredictable yet wondrous journey. So, for those looking to lose themselves in an auditory journey of self-discovery and love, “Something Strange” is the perfect soundtrack.
Listen to “Something Strange” on Spotify or SoundCloud
You can follow Robert O’Connor here for more information.
