EP Review/ Pop : Barbonus’s ‘Fire and Distance’

Barbonus is a German songwriter and artist with an immersive lyrical presence. The artist’s words are expressive and rich, with a charisma that stems out of vulnerability. It’s the perfect medium for the storyteller. His stories are not just about what happened but it’s more of an emotional journey where it’s about the ways he felt. It’s a little bit more intricate and detailed. The articulation can be quite liberating, especially if you relate to it. His latest release is ‘Fire and Distance’, an EP that will take you back to artists like Charlie Puth and Taylor Swift, both in sonic spirit and lyrical worth. Listen Now! 

‘The Song I Never Wrote’ opens the EP. With a mellow drift, the song is softly plush with luminous synths. The vocals embed deep valleys into this backdrop, punctuated by beats and wandering synthline. The production of this track is meant to be visual and electric as you journey into yourself. 

The soundscapes have moods, fleshed out by style and a vivid melodic form. With a nice and emphatic structure and flow, the song draws the listener in and shows them a good time. In ‘What I Meant to Say’, we see an upbeat flow, matched with a heartfelt, confessional vocal emotion. It’s evocative while staying light and contemplative. ‘Creeping Back Again’ is a little bit moody. It’s a song about self exploration and reflection. The dark themes are showcased with edgy elements and contours that layer the mood of the backdrop. 

‘On a Burning Stove’ forms like a mystery. It starts with a small opening, introverted and full of shadows. The more you listen, the deeper you go through the labyrinth of words and emotions. It’s an intense slow burn that is both comforting and compelling. Such a great presentation. ‘Burning Matches’ is epic and electric. It is dynamic, youthful, and catchy in a way that is reminiscent of BØRNS and Daya. Those nice 2016s sound umbrellas around you and keep you nostalgic. 

Lastly, ‘Looking Down’, a track that blends contemporary pop fluidity with neoclassicals. The piano melodies swirl into the vocals,  creating a moving soundscape. One that is deceivingly hypnotic and visually alive. As it hits its peaks, the track explodes into a rock atmosphere, so breathtaking and beautiful that you dissolve into it. The numbness that you feel is you becoming a part of that ethos. It is so enchantingly melancholic and tragic. 

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The EP is available for streaming on popular sites like Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube Music, and Amazon Music! 

You can listen to ‘Fire and Distance’ by Barbonus here -