Bedroom Pop from Ethan Russell

In a small Pennsylvania town, Ethan Russell found his musical muse early on, nurtured by the melodic strains curated by his parents. In his youth, he was already immersed in the rhythm of life, the notes of inspiration and the desire to captivate and entertain.

His childhood, marked by fervent lip-syncing sessions to the Red Hot Chili Peppers, laid the groundwork for a passion that would blossom into a remarkable musical journey, while his experiences as a queer child growing up in a conservative would later inform the profound nature of his songwriting. He took his first artistic steps in 2013, by uploading lifestyle and comedy content on his YouTube channel, a modest start that cultivated a dedicated fanbase.

In 2015, the budding artist embarked on a self-taught exploration of music production, resulting in his debut single, “Circles,” an indie-pop anthem that captured his hook-focused songwriting and DIY approach. Since then, Russell has continued to evolve, with notable success marked by his 2021 EP, Wild & Free, and last year’s album It’s Been Rough, followed by a string of well-received singles.

Now he brings us his latest release with his brand new record titled Not So Flawless, a remastered and reimagined version of his debut album, which serves as a love letter to his youth and a cathartic release that allows him to let go of the past. Originally written when he was just 16 years old, Not So Flawless features 8 tracks that perfectly capture the enduring quality of his songwriting, presented in an updated sound.

Opened by “i gave u extra time, but ur still running late,” Ethan’s charming bedroom pop sound immediately sets an enchanting tone with a delicate arrangement of playful synth tones from the bright fluttering toplines to the pulsing bass notes. With a snapping beat injecting a grooving energy, the first track offers a delightful instrumental synth pop sound.

“Forest” starts with the intriguing sound of nature samples, with crickets frogs and rustling sounds that give way to gentle percussive shots and a droning synth tone. Ethan’s voice glides in, spinning subtly angsty lyricism via blissful melodies before the song erupts into an anthemic electronic pop chorus that takes subtle cues from trap style beats and bold future bass-esque synths.

On “Drive,” Ethan links with singer Ariel to deliver a shimmering synth pop outing. Opened by the lo-fi buzz of synths, the punch of crunchy drums brings in Ethan’s elegant voice, spinning catchy leads and picture painting lyricism. Half way through, Ariel takes the mic to add her unique sonic flair to the track, resulting in a superb collaboration that sees the two artists craft a stellar duet.

Other highlights on the record include songs like “Blue,” with its upbeat indie sound of strummed acoustic guitar and whimsical synth flourishes as Ethan lays down rhythmic vocal leads. It’s an instantly catchy bop full of sing-along writing, colourful instrumentation and danceable rhythm.

Offering a poignant cyclical moment, his debut single “Circles” re-surges with crisp synth pulses over a laid back beat. Capped by Ethan’s slick vocal leads, weaving alluring melodies that lend a gentle alternative R&B vibe to the song, “Circles” is an infectious synth pop cut that shows the artist’s remarkable songwriting talent was there right from the very start of his thrilling sonic adventure.

Listen to Not So Flawless below

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