Camden-based singer-songwriter Bruno Major has unveiled his highly anticipated debut album, a project that stands as a testament to his creative powers and emotional depth. Over the past lunar cycles, Major meticulously crafted each of the 12 tracks, composing and finalizing them within the span of a single full moon—28 days. This ambitious approach pushed him to explore the outer limits of his artistry, culminating in an album that feels both personal and innovative. His work combines stripped-back ballads, easy-listening melodies, and timeless production techniques into a unique genre he seems to be defining as ‘soulful pop’.
We open with Wouldn’t Mean a Thing, an ode to love and partnership. The song starts with a harmonious acappella introduction, setting a tender and introspective tone. Major’s voice, accompanied only by distant echoes, an acoustic guitar, and a simple drum set, delivers an honest reflection on his life. He reveals that despite any future material wealth he might acquire, it would be meaningless without the presence of his loved one. This track establishes Major as a deeply genuine and heartfelt artist, laying a foundation for the album’s exploration of love and self.
Transitioning from this optimism, There’s Little Left is a track that portrays a more somber perspective. The vocals here are dry and gritty, contrasting with the previous warmth. This shift marks the beginning of a journey for Major, who, through lyrics like ‘there’s always your heart left to win’, demonstrates a struggle to rebuild confidence. The minimalist drum set and the airy, vacant space in the track create a arena of an emotional void. The introduction of a delicate electric guitar riff in the bridge offers the only glimpse of hope, and Major’s sound evolves here whilst maintaining a certain coldness. The subtle ‘hmmms’ before the guitar drop out also add an intriguing and mysterious layer to this one.
Exploring a more upbeat rhythm, The First Thing You See showcases a vibrant and lively return of our favourite, the acoustic guitar. This track introduces a vibrant blend of drumsticks, synth pads and backing vocals, which create a dynamic and race-like energy. Despite the stronger sound, there’s a sense that Major’s emotional expression in the chorus could be more powerful. The lyrics reflect a future filled with hope yet a moment of doubt creeps in during the bridge, marked by minor chords. The song finishes through an uplifting conclusion, but this is abruptly cut off and as we transition into the next track. A significant change in emotional tone.
Easily is easily one of Major’s standout tracks. We see major coming to terms with the complexities of unrequited love. This track features a fresh production style, incorporating drum claps, slap bass, delicate saxophone undertones and mellow guitar strums. The contrast between smooth instrumentation and the song’s theme of unreciprocated feelings creates a such a contrast, emphasizing the discomfort and challenges inherent within the concept of love itself.
Getting warm? Getting cosy? Home reinforces this idea with a record-scratch opening that immediately captivates and makes us feel at peace in a 1960s kinda-way. The track evokes a nostalgic feel, blending elements reminiscent of Bob Dylan’s ‘Make You Feel My Love’ and influences from John Mayer. It stands out as one of Major’s most desperate songs, allowing his emotions to take center stage. The song’s folk-inspired sound emits a sense of comfort and intimacy, creating a feeling of listening to a personal confession. Let us in, Bruno.
Major shifts into the jazz world in Like Someone in Love, which features laid-back guitar chords and bouncy vocals reminiscent of a 1930s film soundtrack. The song is a tribute to the joy and clumsiness of falling in love, with Major’s playful lyrics and the inclusion of flutes and harps contributing to a relaxed and charming atmosphere. The track’s minimal vocal presence, combined with its buoyant instrumental backing, highlights Major’s ability to create an period-specific soundscape. Yet, the tendency to end songs abruptly continues again here, leaving listeners somewhat irritated with a sense of unfinished narratives. Maybe a few more moon cycles would’ve helped?
Just the Same is arguably Major’s most popular track. It’s a powerful piano ballad that delves into the depths of obsessive love. The song opens with a raw intensity, as he expresses his anguish through lyrics like ‘smash all the pictures where I am in the frame’. This explosive energy, supported by harsh drum kicks, creates a hauntingly emotional experience. Major’s comparison of himself to a ‘mad man in the rain’ and his demands for his lover to ‘cut [him] to the bone’ really showcase the extreme nature of his emotions. We get both from Bruno. The interplay between muffled vocals and piano further accentuates the unsettling feelings of this track, painting a vivid picture of a rocky relationship.
The theme of obsessive love continues in Second Time, but with a gentler, more reflective tone. The folky interlude reintroduces a crunchy drum beat and establishing a sense of continuity within this whole project. Major’s proximity to the microphone gives the impression of an intimate whisper, though the lyrics contrast this closeness with imagery of destruction and impatience. The song’s interlude features guitar riffs reminiscent of ‘Somewhere Over the Rainbow’, adding to that ever-present nostalgic feel.
Introducing! New theme alert! Fair-Weather Friend gives us jealousy in all it’s glory. The track, reminiscent of Bruno Mars’ ‘When I Was Your Man’ presents Major’s take on the emotional impact of an ex-lover’s new partner. Major’s lyrics, such as ‘he could buy a bed but it won’t help you sleep’ emphasise the comparison of material wealth as a compromise of genuine connection. He does this though, all whilst staying very cool, very on-beat and very nonchalant. Still envious, but very unbothered. It creates a soothing listening experience, and his falsettos really shine in the chorus.
One of my personal faves, Places We Won’t Walk offers a deeply personal and introspective experience. The stripped-back nature of this song suggests that Major might have written and recorded it late at night, engaging in a conversation with his piano. The track contrasts the innocence we see earlier with a newfound sense of doubt and anxiety about the future. Major’s lyrics contrast nature and urban environments which further exaggerate his conflicts, and – hear me out – the pre-chorus has a strong resemblance to Toy Story’s ‘When Somebody Loved Me’. Its this emotional harmony and vulnerable feel that makes this his most personal record yet.
Exiting from the rawness, Cold Blood follows a more upbeat and hopeful sound. The track’s fresh and clean opening, characterized by vibrant guitar and vocals showcase Major’s exploration of new production techniques and sounds. Throughout this debut, we’ve seen him really diversify himself as an artist. The subtle ticking noise throughout the track may symbolize the pass of time and internal contemplation, and the modern, radio-friendly sound of this one leaves us wondering where future projects may take us.
The album concludes with On Our Own, a poignant piano-based outro that closes Major’s journey. The track serves as a message to the world, expressing a sense of both hope and isolation. Major’s lyrics, including the line ‘I know the world is a beautiful place, but we’re on our own’ conveys a deep appreciation for the world but simultaneously addressing loneliness. The minimal production highlights Major’s vocal performance and the introduction of violins and cellos adds an orchestral dimension to this release. The song’s final moments, marked by a single piano note, create a powerful conclusion, leaving listeners – finally – with a sense of closure and reflection.
Bruno Major’s debut album is a remarkable exploration of love, self-discovery, and artistic expression. Through its diverse range of sounds and themes, the album showcases Major’s ability to craft deeply emotional and creative music on a timeline of just 28 days. Each track contributes to a cohesive narrative, reflecting Major’s growth as an artist and his commitment to pushing the boundaries of his creations. This debut not only puts Major at the forefront of emerging talent, but also sets the stage for a promising future in the industry.
Glerbie 