Single reviewsThe Other Side Reviews

Brandon Poletti – Craving (2024)

Living in an uncertain society can be complicated and breed cynicism, but Brandon Poletti tosses cynicism to the wind celebrating life in its totality. Growing up, the Australian singer-songwriter lived for riding motorbikes and playing his guitar, and this all bred a happy, bright-eyed affection for life – even with the grit and grungy bits. Now established as a beloved artist in the Australian country music scene, Poletti garners praise far beyond his Perth borders, is an award-winning artist earning the 2023 WA Music Awards “Best Country Group” with his band Brandon Poletti & The Eagleton Brothers, and is quickly gathering a following with his enthralling tunes. The latest addition to his discography is the single ‘Craving’.

Excited by the idea of telling stories and sharing messages through music, Poletti’s love for songwriting is the core of his evocative, emotional, profound melodies. Following his well-received singles ‘Move Away’ and ‘Slow Down’, ‘Craving’ is a rich country ballad packed with twinkling tones and powerful emotions. Tackling the complexity of yearning and hopefulness, Poletti presents an “anthem of the human condition”. He shares that ‘Craving’ “invites listeners to reflect on the complexities of love, resilience, heartache, and the enduring power of hope…”

Hope and empowerment, wonderful and soul-stirring themes in the raw darkness of desperate heartache. As with ‘Move Away’, ‘Craving’ presents a moody broodiness to the melody; however, the new single veils any dark thoughts with the soulful richness of Poletti’s vocals. A heartsore ballad, the simplistic arrangement of guitars, drums and piano tugs at your heartstrings – the piano evoking a gut-wrenching punch of breath-taking melancholy. Just as there is despair, there is an optimistic light threaded throughout ‘Craving’. Yes, your beloved has disappeared, yet the silvery glimmer of hope threads through the mournful song.

In my introduction to Brandon Poletti, I had no idea what to expect, all I knew was the song leans toward country. A typical country twinkle and twang exists; however, ‘Craving’ transcends genres traipsing across folk, soft rock, indie-pop and blues. Already an instant fan, I cannot wait for Poletti’s upcoming EP Thinking Of The Past.


Find out more about Brandon Poletti on his Facebook, Instagram and Spotify.  


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