Originally hailing from New Jersey and now based in Nashville, artist Tom Barrett has been on a lifelong musical journey that began in the 90s when America’s indie rock scene was in full bloom. Tom was initially drawn to the noise and energy of that movement, eventually fronting the notable shoegaze trio Overlake.
However, his evolution as an artist led him down a softer, more reflective path, swapping the distortion of his early work for the hushed, delicate soundscapes that define his solo material today. Inspired by artists like Beck and The National, he’s developed his own sound, focusing on simplicity and sincerity in his songwriting.
Since launching his solo career in 2019, Barrett has built an impressive catalog that spans multiple singles, EPs and albums, with his 2022 record, You Are and You’ve Always Been, released to critical acclaim. Now, with his forthcoming album Everywhere We Live, Tom Barrett has crafted a collection of songs that capture a spectrum of moods, from muted and melancholic to hopeful and uplifting.
At the heart of this new project is “Honest Eyes,” the lead single that serves as a perfect introduction to his shifting musical output. “Honest Eyes” is a track that feels immediately inviting, yet understated. Brought in by the gentle bounce of drums and guitar chords, Tom’s soft voice enters to hover above, creating a mellow indie folk scene full of warm instrumental tones, laid back rhythm and catchy melodic writing.
With vintage tones of a Fender Rhodes keyboard adding colour to the arrangement, it’s a composition that relies on the purity of its elements, allowing each part to breathe and connect with the listener. Tom’s voice is his greatest asset on “Honest Eyes,” shifting from whispers to a more present, clear tone that carries the song’s subtle melody with grace.
The song is a clear reflection of his broader vision for Everywhere We Live, a project that’s set to range from piano ballads to indie pop-tinged rock. Serving up a compelling taste of what’s to come, with “Honest Eyes,” Tom Barrett presents a charming jam that sees him continue to deliver superb music with enduring quality. With his next album set to drop next month, we can’t wait to see what this talented artist has in store.
Listen to Honest Eyes below
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