Track of the Day: Pio Hartnett – Broadway
Described by arts publication The Bops Collective as “nothing short of phenomenal”, Pio Hartnett is capturing hearts on the blogosphere – and we’re one of those hearts. Already featured on The Other Side Reviews a couple of times, along with coverage on Chalkpit Records, Strike A Note, York Calling and numerous playlists, Hartnett is building a loyal following (at least among the press). The latest addition to his discography is the single ‘Broadway’.
Alright, if this is your introduction to Pio Hartnett, let’s share some of his unique tale and personality. After trying to avoid becoming a musician after secondary school believing it was not a serious job, Hartnett spent years travelling across Canada before returning to Ireland to study a BA in Philosophy and English Literature – all the time “flirting” with music production. Eventually, in 2018, Hartnett decided to give into his musical talent and moved to Dublin to become what he was trying to avoid. I’ll admit, I’m glad he did so.
The pandemic may have brought many struggles and challenges to people, but there are also inspirational tales of love, hope and self-growth. In ‘Broadway’, Hartnett shares his real life “it happened during the pandemic” love story where he bonded with someone over texts and a shared sense of longing. With the aim of bringing reflection, insight and self-awareness to audiences, ‘Broadway’ is another sonic representation of the vulnerability of human nature layered with personal experiences.
“As someone who has recently dived headfirst into making music for a living, I just want to create the most thoughtful and considered songs that I can. I’m lucky to be able to express myself in this way and as the world opens back up, I also get to share this experience with people in real life which excites me beyond words.” – Pio Hartnett
Following his well-received single ‘Grand Prix’, the singer-songwriter adopts a soul meets jazz with a contemporary pop obscurity in ‘Broadway’. Tender, heartfelt and intimate, ‘Broadway’ is a track that both lifts your spirit but also brings you to the ground with its brutal honesty. Raw and haunting with an acoustic-inspired sound, although there is a smooth electric guitar intertwined into the melody, the track shows the beauty of simplicity.
While Hartnett’s vocals are rich and bold, there is also haunting in the soulful execution. Wrapping you with a warm, fluffy blanket, you feel safe in the comfortable sonic bubble of ‘Broadway’. Yet, the soothing charm of the languid track hides a melancholic undertone as Hartnett explores human fragility, disappointment and sensitivity in its lyrics.
For more from Pio Hartnett check out his Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Spotify.
