Debut EP from Alwyn Morrison

Based in New York City, Alwyn Morrison is a new artist who’s found his voice and began sharing his exceptional musical output this year. A rising name in indie rock and pop, he’s quickly making an impression with music that is sharply yet instilled with timeless emotion with his songs reflecting city living, the sting of heartbreak and the quieter battles that come with chasing ambition, all brought to life with stunning melodies and meaningful lyrics.

Previously working as a journalist, he interviewed some of the most exciting names in the industry, including Esperanza Spalding and Jack Antonoff. That time spent exploring other artists’ creative worlds gave him an insider’s perspective on song structure, storytelling and the practice of translating feeling into music. When personal hardship pulled him closer to his own emotions, writing became a lifeline and eventually, he knew he was meant to perform.

His earliest encounters with music were scattered but telling; xylophone in a school orchestra, tambourine in casual college jam sessions. The tools had always been there, but it wasn’t until this year that he wielded them seriously, debuting with “The City,” an impressive opening statement which he’s followed up with a string of well-received releases in the build up to his brand new debut EP titled Heartsplit.

The six-track project explores love in its many shapes from new beginnings and the challenges that test bonds to the ache of loss and the fragile hope of renewal. Produced by Michael Carey and mixed by Alex Aldi, Alwyn’s own writing runs throughout the EP, supported by co-writers Michael Ales and Michael Kooman while pianist Harlan Hodges adds to the intricate arrangement. Heartsplit offers a carefully considered portrait of Alwyn as an artist defining his identity, crystallising the arrival of a thoughtful and assured new voice.

Kicked off by “A Mile A Minute,” the EP jumps into an uptempo pop punk sound where punchy drums and guitars underpin Alwyn’s expressive vocals as he casts instantly catchy hooks to deliver an upbeat and highly memorable jam. His debut single “The City follows with infectious melodic writing carrying thoughtful lyricism, building toward a blues-tinged guitar solo that caps the song with a flourish on a superb pop-focused rock outing.

Following that, “Chained” reveals the more tender side of Alwyn’s sound with a delicate song that recounts the tale of loving someone with depression. It’s a charming and truly emotive indie rock piece, built on snappy drums, silky vocals and a chorus that manages to be both catchy and devastatingly moving.

Other highlights include “Lenox Hill,” a collaboration with Emmy-nominated composer Michael Kooman. Serving up a ballad set in the Manhattan neighbourhood of the same name, it pairs bright piano, soft synth textures and crisp guitar chords which frame his warm vocals in a track that’s at once danceable and poignant.

Closing the EP with “Maybe In Another World,” Alwyn crafts a delightful indie pop scene where gentle acoustic guitar and elegant orchestral instrumentation is met by his heartfelt vocal performance. Capturing his stellar songwriting in a graceful setting, it’s a dazzling finale to his sensational debut EP release.

Listen to Heartsplit below