Boy is the Pop world ever in for a treat.
In these times of spectacular (no pun intended 😉 ) successes for young women, the role of the young male pop singer has been relegated to (pick your pleasure) anonymous dance artist, balladeer, sensitive guitar player, rock ‘n roller. Nothing wrong with that. But every once in a while, a recording comes along with perspective that demands attention. For me, such has been the case for the last few months with Simon Curtis’ new release 8-bit Heart. It’s available for free download right here from his new website (which also has all the lyrics and a bunch of new photos), since the 24 year old L.A. based singer/songwriter has reached the magic number of 8,000 followers on Twitter.
People who know me for my veteran insight into Pop music over 30 odd years can vouch that I do not lend my support behind just any old undertaking. It all started with a tune called “Delusional” about 20 or so weeks ago (alas I have never heard Simon’s previous record, the still ‘unreleased’ Alter Boy).
So here’s my detailed Track-By-Track commentary on this conceptual mixtape. 8-bit Heart contains some brief tracks that are essentially dialogue at the beginning, end, and in the middle, plus some introductions to some songs. Some of it is related to the record’s concepts, others seem purely random and fun.
Don’t Wanna Be Alone – This rather plain-ish intro to the record doesn’t give you any idea of what’s in store for you, but it does start out the basic concept. It’s tough being our boy robot hero, finding his way through a cold, unforgiving, and seemingly unloving world.
Fell in Love with an Android – “This is Simon Curtis – Human-Cyborg Relations” – OK where’s this one going? Cold love meet thy bitch slap, ouch! This one still has me thinking… but I probably need to move on.
Super Psycho Love – I hemmed and hawed about this song, but it’s finally grown on me, the rhythm is irresistible and the lyrics ultimately are powerful.
8Bit Heart – The title track is the emotional core of the record with a fabulous vocal that’s actually enhanced by autotune – yes this record uses it as a special effect not as the full effect. The song initially gets you in the gut and sets a new tone for the rest of the record.
Diablo – After a few months, I find “Diablo” less brusque than I did at first. But it’s the song that ultimately turns the record on its side – a “Womanizer” for the young male voice that spits out more daggers than even “Fell in Love with an Android” or “Super Psycho Love”. Still not near my favourite, but very credible.
Delusional – “Delusional” to me is still the best song on the record. It packs a certain Pop punch unlike the rest, and contains not only an interesting story but also Simon’s best vocals. If there’s a surefire potential radio hit here, this is it!!
Joystick – Hands down, “Joystick” is the most humorous and the naughtiest track – even without swearing! It’s sinewy electro pop that will leave you wanting more.
Beat Drop – “Beat Drop” is my next most favourite song within after “Delusional”. It’s a dance club rave-up for the late nite crowd that’s just begging for an extended remix, though I love it just as it is, all 2:25 of it! Nice and tidy, with one of the best lines I’ve heard in a long time that name-checks a recent hit. Oh, and did I mention the opera singer? And what are the seven kinds of naughty, anyway?
Brainwash – The busiest track on 8-bit Heart is frenetic overkill with too much autotune, the only song that I would pass on, though it’s really the climax of the various concepts.
The Dark – The emotional dénouement to 8-bit Heart somehow ends up being warm and fuzzy inside, even with a lengthy sample (which if I’m not mistaken comes from Jay-Z’s “Encore”) that helps give our boy robot hero his tough exterior.
8-bit Heart is indeed a slick affair, not necessarily for the youngins, despite Simon’s recent exposure in Nickelodeon’s teen hit “Spectacular!”, with futuristic backdrop by pop/dance producer Jadion. It’s all about heartbreak, being alone and unloved, psycho relationships with the opposite sex, and just plain having fun. The lyrics and vocals spare no prisoners – pointed and bold lines are sung with sarcasm, anger, swearing, and humour. It’s exhilarating, thought-provoking, and a good time is had by all! Don’t miss it.
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