Andrew Patterson – Hope Will Find Its Way (2021)
Known for his intimate and honest songs, Ireland-based singer-songwriter Andrew Patterson finds his way to my virtual desk once again. Taking influence from iconic artist Bruce Springsteen, his lyricism is catchy but also substantial in modern society. So, where did he pop from? Well, he began his journey over five years ago releasing critically acclaimed material and gigging regularly across Belfast and Dublin. Featured on Fruit Sonic, Hot Press, RTE, Right Chord Music and various media, Patterson is captivating hearts left, right and centre. The most recent addition to his well-received repertoire is ‘Hope Will Find Its Way’.
Following the upbeat single ‘Normal People’ (read our review here), Patterson increases the intensity of his sound in ‘Hope Will Find Its Way’. I can easily share that ‘Hope Will Find Its Way’ is one of the more dramatic singles I have heard this year, but my reasoning may sound slightly odd. A song’s introduction is crucial to the audience’s reception and the bold, powerful chords of ‘Hope Will Find Its Way’ instantly made me think of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s ‘The Phantom of the Opera’. I know, it’s weird, but the force of the opening left me blown away, just like The Phantom. Yet, Patterson adds a flair with an underlying indie-rock sound that The Phantom just didn’t have.
Alright, weird part over, let’s get on with this.
Using an interesting arrangement, Patterson is able to find a soothing flow to the profound melody. Acoustic-inspired, he shows no bells or whistles are required to have a breath-taking impact. The rise and fall of instrumentation elegantly align with the journey we take in ‘Hope Will Find Its Way’; as if we were bopping along a sonic river with light as our guide. Known for intimacy, honesty and sincerity in his work, it is no wonder that Patterson weaves sentimental meaning in this kaleidoscopic tapestry.
While the melody blows me away, it is the lyricism that often shows Patterson’s uniqueness. His personal narrative connects with listeners on a deeper level highlighting the passion in his words. Moreover, this passion is heard as his dulcet tones fill with a yearning, desperation and rawness making the introspective message more palpable. I’ve always considered songs as either “word songs” or “feel songs”; ‘Hope Will Find Its Way’ is indescribable so you need to listen to it to feel its full power.
For more from Andrew Patterson check out his Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Spotify.
