Shawn Mendes' New Album - A Journey of Self-Discovery
Album Release and Overview
In 2014, Shawn Mendes rose to fame with the release of his debut song, "Life of the Party," and album, "Handwritten." Since then, he has become a household name with hits like "Stitches," "Treat You Better," and "Senorita" featuring Camila Cabello. His latest album, "Shawn," is a folk-pop masterpiece that showcases his ever-changing artistry and willingness to take risks.Supported by an acoustic guitar, kick drums, moving melodies, and his soft yet fiercely emotional vocals, the album feels like a collage of similarly-styled paintings in music form. Though only 30 minutes long, it managed to break - and then fix - the listener in just half an hour.
Collaborators and Family Component
Collaborators Eddie Benjamin, Mike Sabath, and Scott Harris bring the family component to this album. They are not only Mendes' friends and collaborators but also his motivators. Mendes realized that he isn't alone in life and that this album is a collective effort.The 26-year-old's journey to self-discovery is continuous and crafted into a philosophical music. Unlike his previous albums, "Shawn" focuses on his own narrative rather than sharing his experience of life through the eyes of a young adult in love.
Album Tracks and Emotions
The album opens with a soft whisper on "Who I Am," establishing itself as a heartfelt apology to fans for canceling the Wonder the World Tour in 2022 due to mental health struggles.Lead single "Why Why Why" follows, leading into track three, "That’s the Dream," which is one of the top songs. Though relatively upbeat with an abundant strumming guitar, it has undertones of sadness, demonstrating Mendes' ability to weave multiple emotions into one song.
Tracks four through six, "Nobody Knows," "Isn’t That Enough," and "Heart of Gold," were used as singles prior to the album's release. "Nobody Knows" dips Mendes' toes into the grounds of country music, reminiscent of his older work. "Isn’t That Enough" follows with a campfire feel, and "Heart of Gold" is a heartfelt dedication to his childhood friend who passed away.
Dealing with Emotions
Upon initial listening to "Heavy," the crisp acoustic guitar and heavenly harmonies left the listener in awe. The progression from the pre-chorus to the chorus is powerfully soulful while simultaneously woeful, resembling the bittersweet process of moving on."That’ll Be the Day" alludes to the concept of death in a solemn and poetic way. It is one of the most lyrically advanced songs on the album and an automatic personal favorite.
"In Between" lightens the mood with an appreciation for the little moments of love, drawing similarities to track five. This choice shows how the entire album is truly corresponding.
Addressing Scrutiny
In "The Mountain," Mendes composely addresses the unjustified scrutiny he has faced since gaining popularity as a teenager. He sings "I’ve never been better/ so call it what you want," not allowing it to affect him."Rollin’ Right Along" is a catchy embrace of healing and moving on, instead of using yearning for love as a bandaid on his pain. He accepts every life experience in its entirety.
Album Conclusion
The album concludes with a cover of "Hallelujah" originally performed by Leonard Cohen. Mendes' voice is a perfect match for the tone of the song, and his new rendition feels nostalgic to fans who have supported him since day one.Much like his preceding four albums, "Shawn" is driven by Mendes' capability of introspection and his internal relationship with every raw, human emotion. His undeniable musical talent and knowledge are evident throughout the creative process.
Rating: 5/5