Singer-songwriter Ross Freedman has mesmerized us with his musical prowess in the heart of Chicago’s thriving music scene, following the success of his 2022 hit single ‘Horizon.’ He returns this year with ‘My Enemy,’ a four-song EP that exemplifies polished and mature recording. Comprising songs like “My Enemy,” “All This Time,” “Let You Go,” and “Worst of Me,” this 17-minute musical journey came out on September 19th and transcends mere sounds, building a tapestry of dynamic indie-rock folk-pop that’s both rollicking and pensive. Ross Freedman’s music epitomizes the art of a purposely paced storyteller, a prodigy at crafting rich and evocative lyrics that dive into universal themes of self-doubt, anxiety, and loss. While these themes have been the bedrock of Freedman’s previous work, ‘My Enemy’ amplifies the inquiry through the deft use of metaphor, turns of phrase, and an evident passion for wordplay.
“My Enemy,” the EP’s title track, sets the tone with a gripping musical experience that captivates with profound insight and vigorous pace. This song’s lyrics dig into inner thought and growth, addressing the trials and tribulations of life. The clever use of imagery and metaphor adds dimension to the story and provides a glimpse into the battle of self-discovery and acceptance. The fast-paced nature of the song, enhanced by the striking drum rolls, propels the tempo forward, providing urgency and intensity that complement the emotions expressed in the lyrics. Ross Freedman’s impassioned vocals and the instrumentation’s cohesion, particularly the synthesizers and electric guitars, enhance the music, creating an intriguing auditory journey that makes an impact. Steve Dawson’s guitar and Gerald Dowd’s drum input, respectively, play an important part in bolstering the overall intensity and brightness of the song, making “My Enemy” an outstanding piece in its genre.
“All This Time,” a sorrowful and pensive ballad that tackles themes of nostalgia, regret, and abused possibilities, follows suit. The lyrics provide a clear image of time passing and memories lingering in the gaps between moments. Steve Dawson’s bass and electric guitars provide a sturdy basis for the song’s melancholy tone, while Ross Freedman’s synth and toy pianos lend an ethereal aspect, and Gerald Dowd’s drums anchor the beat. The vocal performances, both lead and backup, are heartfelt and convey a sense of longing. The repeated refrain, “What’s yours, or mine didn’t mean so much, The hurt was fine; we could take a punch,” conveys the concept that despite the ups and downs, the connection between each character in the song remains. “All This Time” is an exceptionally composed piece of music that asks listeners to think about their life journeys and the meaning of passing moments.
“Let You Go” brings a change in pace and emotion, delving into themes of change, release, and the passing of time. The lyrics create a vivid depiction of changing seasons and subtle life changes. The lamplight-throwing shadows symbolize the fleeting moments we often clutch onto but must finally let go of, as portrayed by the melting snowpack and flowing river. The slow, melodic flow of the song and the ethereal nature of the music, led by Ross Freedman’s soothing voice, effectively complement the lyrical topics. The song’s emotional depth sensitively conveys the urge to release, the desire to lose one’s hold on what is passing. “Let You Go” is a heartfelt reflection on the inevitability of change and the wisdom of embracing it gently. This song is a touching and insightful musical experience, thanks to Freedman’s voice, instrumentals, and lyrical narration.
“Worst of Me,” the EP’s closing track, is a sorrowful and introspective ballad about neglect, decay, and emotional isolation. The lyrics clearly describe a deteriorating physical setting, from the crack in the wall to the bow in the floor, and serve as effective analogies for a difficult relationship or a sense of personal decay. The refrain, “I see it but I don’t see it clearly, next to it but not even nearly in focus,” emphasizes the premise of being there yet emotionally detached. The instrumentation brilliantly matches the song’s melancholy tone, with Steve Dawson’s electric and bass guitars creating a gloomy backdrop to Ross Freedman’s soulful vocals. “Worst Of Me” invites listeners to reflect on the unsaid difficulties that might impede bonds and the difficulty of mending what is already broken, making it a riveting exploration of the intricacies of human relationships and self-awareness.
Music is a reflection of human experience, and ‘My Enemy’ is a humble offering to that reflection. Overall, the “My Enemy” EP by Ross Freedman is a triumph of talent and a homage to the potential of music to touch the soul and capture the intellect. It’s an absolute must-listen, a musical masterpiece that will certainly stand the test of time. Ross Freedman establishes his status as an artist to watch with this EP, and his future in the music industry appears brighter than ever. His creative brilliance shines like a beacon, lighting the darkest regions of our hearts and leaving us delighted as well as enlightened. As a fan of meaningful music, I find solace and kinship in the profound narratives woven by Freedman, a storyteller whose tales etch themselves into the hearts and minds.
Listen to the “My Enemy” EP by Ross Freedman on Spotify or SoundCloud and let us know your thoughts.
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