Silas Armstrong – So Much For Love (2021)
Beginning as a radio producer working with artists from each genre and sub-genre, Armstrong began with some experience in the industry; however, he was more than a mere producer. In addition to his work at Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club, Armstrong studied music and played in various bands increasing his musical skills each day. Yet, it was the sudden death of his friend that prompted him to write a solo EP So Much For Love and bring his sound to the masses. Featured on Sinusoidal Music, YMX and various playlists/online radio stations, Armstrong’s unique sound is reaching people on a global level. The latest addition to his well-received discography is So Much For Love, but we’re looking at the title track in this review.
The result of the Covid-19 lockdown creativity, So Much For Love is an EP showcasing his versatility from the contemporary pop ‘Liar’ to the acoustic ‘Giving Up’ and funk-inspired ‘Lost On You’; however, as I mentioned, we are here to look at ‘So Much For Love’. Influenced by artists like The Weekend, Adele and Toto, Armstrong has an obscure sound and this eclecticism is seen in this track.
Armstrong’s music is generally emotional and intimate, but there seems to be a further sensitivity in ‘So Much For Love’. Finding a line between hip-hop and indie-pop, the single has a toe-tapping beat with a heartwarming melody. The thing is, while there is a sense of warmth in the song the melancholic ambience is immediately identified in the desperate lyricism. With the catchy choruses, Armstrong’s powerful vocals have a sense of exasperation and despair enhancing the poignancy of the tune. Connecting deeply with listeners, I see (or rather hear) how ‘So Much For Love’ can seep into your soul and leave you with goosebumps.
Along with his single, Silas Armstrong released an official music video for ‘So Much For Love’. Reminding me slightly of a cover I saw of The Streets’ ‘Fit But You Know It’ video, Armstrong’s film follows him as he continues with everyday life. Alright, so not really following his daily routine but rather him speaking with us as he continues walking along. The video adds a visual representation to the evocative single with personal narratives, heartwarming conversations and even ending with the sea as a calming reflection of events. Big bonus: this video does not use strobe-like lighting effects and is safe for people with photosensitive epilepsy to view.
For more from Silas Armstrong check out his Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Spotify.