Powerful vocals, a musical feeling that asserts itself in the opulent arrangement as well as in intimate moments in which almost everything is reduced to the essentials – Dermot Kennedy draws attention to “Sonder”. While there is some predictability in the long run, because you can already sense what’s coming and the feel is usually right, Kennedy delivers some songs on her new album that are sure to have a lasting effect.
The pulsating “Kiss Me” makes her legs move, “Dreamer” shows Kennedy’s calm and intense side. He’s also at odds with himself when he’s never enough, which can complicate relationships. “Already Gone” is great emotional cinema. Being abandoned can hurt a lot. Kennedy sings so painfully that he sympathizes and devotes a few thoughts to all those with whom life is not so kind.
For the singer and songwriter, “Sonder” is also a statement. “I’m in an industry where we’re encouraged to think only of ourselves all the time, and I find that exhausting and uninspiring,” says Kennedy. That’s why he wants this music, his songs, to belong to everyone, to find their own stories and comfort in it. This too is a nice thought in these weeks, when there is so much talk about being together and creating meaning.
Dermot Kennedy “Sonder” (Interscope)
