Hailing from Canada and now based in the UK, Sean Bertram is an artist whose musical output extends far beyond the role of a singer-songwriter. A guitarist, producer, audio engineer and multi-instrumentalist, Sean crafts each of his tracks from the ground up, drawing on a wide range of influences that range from Michael Jackson and Prince to Aretha Franklin and Michael McDonald.
With a delicate sound that blends intricate harmonies, rhythmic sophistication and lyrical honesty, his work sits comfortably alongside artists like Tom Misch, Stephen Day, Cory Wong and Jamie Cullum. First sharing his original sound in 2018 with the debut album The Right Place, he’s since shared a string of well-received releases including his breakout single “The Muffin Song” featuring Amanda MacDonald.
Now, Sean Bertram returns with his latest single titled “What’s On Your Mind,” a charming offering that captures the tension of emotional disconnect and the difficulty of communication at a romantic crossroads. Written during the end of a five-year relationship in 2020, the track is brimming with reflective songwriting but Sean flips expectations with a colourful, soul pop groove, pairing melancholy themes with a cathartic and uplifting musical arrangement.
True to form, he pulls off this emotional duality with pure finesse; his multi-instrumental chops are on full display as he arranges, records and mixes the track himself. The production is warm and layered, featuring 17 guitar parts, 36 vocal tracks and intricate keys, synths and bass. Co-producer Jared Gershon contributes live drums and percussion, the track shines with infectious energy and danceable rhythms.
Set up by his airy, filtered vocalisations, a soft groove of pulsing bass notes and Sean’s soulful voice are met with the laid back click of percussive elements and funky guitar touches, forming a shimmering sound full of pop-focused hooks and dazzling instrumental flickers. Peppered with subtly rock grit with flashes of hazy electric guitar, his alluring vocals glide through a stunning R&B-inflected jam that’s sure to win over new and existing fans alike.
The single is a teaser for Sean Bertram’s upcoming third studio album, Everything Again, a project nearly four years in the making. Crafted between Canada and the UK, the album is set to be his most ambitious work yet. Featuring engaging arrangements, experimental production choices and even a few duets, it’s poised to showcase the full range of what he can do when given complete creative control and we can’t wait to see what it’s got in store.
Commenting on the single, he shares, “I wanted to bury the message in something you could dance to. Even though the song is about emotional distance and difficult conversations, I hoped the energy would help people connect to it in a visceral way.”
Listen to What’s On Your Mind below
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