Single reviewsThe Other Side Reviews

Tony Lio – Sweet Romantic (2023)

Described as “mesmerising…” (Sinusoidal Music), “showing great talent for lyrical and instrumental composition…” (Os Garatos De Liverpool) and having “a knack for immersive storytelling” (Lost In The Manor), Tony Lio can captivate audiences with his natural musical talent. Along with these publications, singer-songwriter Lio has also received praise from various blogs like Edgar Allan Poets, Illustrate Magazine, UK Independent, and FV Music Blog turning heads far beyond his US borders. The latest addition to his critically acclaimed discography is the single ‘Sweet Romantic’.

Following the well-received track ‘Kaleidoscope’, ‘Sweet Romantic’ is not only Lio’s first release in 2023 but also the final single in his trilogy of songs – The Balance Trilogy. Oscillating between the dark and light elements in life, the trilogy takes one through a journey of insight, understanding and growth. ‘Sweet Romantic’ touches on the intricate concept of passion. Is it gut-wrenching agony or blissful serenity? In ‘Sweet Romantic’, Lio addresses both sides of the coin.

“Passion can be a beautiful thing, but it can also be something that becomes so tragic. You must accept both the dark and the light to become a whole person again…” – Tony Lio on ‘Sweet Romantic’.

Recorded with producer Matt Pelosi, this single is dubbed “a sweet treat for listeners”. Unlike the psychedelic sound of ‘Kaleidoscope’, ‘Sweet Romantic’ explores the realm of grunge and alternative rock. Tipping his hat at classic rock, there is a nostalgic flair in the powerful guitar and drums. Yet, while a dragging back to the 80s is evident, Lio brings a contemporary rock vibe to the song. Just as a balance exists between old-school and modern-day rock, ‘Sweet Romantic’ inserts a hopefulness and shining beauty in the dark melancholic intensity.

Powerful, sincere and able to take you off on a delightfully soul-stirring sonic journey, Tony Lio finds the light and dark sides of passion in this evocative single.


In addition to the single, Tony Lio released an official music video for ‘Sweet Romantic’. The video can be viewed below or on his YouTube channel.



For more from Tony Lio, check out his official website, Facebook, Instagram and Spotify.

This artist was discovered via Musosoup #sustainablecurator