“Ok. so, I listened to Shad Robinson’s “1989.” And then I listened again.

And again. And again.

If you knew anything about me at all–you’d know this:

I am a perfectionist, and therefore- very hard to please.

I’ve been trained in the recording arts to listen with a critical ear. Each track individually, then the whole album all the way through. The whole point is to absorb as much as possible of what the artist is putting out there. Whether it’s tape hiss or an extra strum on the guitar, this is what they want you to hear. A lot of the time, they are bearing their soul, and it’s up to you to what degree that you receive their messages.

I listened, I absorbed. Here’s what I got out of “1989″.

For this kid, Shad Robinson, to be writing about what he does, and saying what his album says- if he was in fact born in 1989, he is well beyond his years. Sure, he is a little vulgar in some of his lyrics, but you know what? The words that surround the vulgarity aren’t just useless babble. Sometimes you need a few choice and strategically placed “fucks” and “shits” to get your point across clearly. These words were not over or misused.

Everyone has pre-conceived notions when taking on new opportunities. I honestly assumed that this album would be very similar in style to that of– well, artists I don’t usually enjoy. But with “1989″, it was not at all hard to dig this shit. And that was definitely a super pleasant surprise.

There were a few tracks that really caught my ear:

“Cardboard” (The first single, a smart and great choice)

At first listen, I was not at all interested in hearing it at the time. I let it play, barely giving it a chance. I think I was just in an indifferent mood that day, and it’s that easy, folks, you could miss out on something special if you don’t let yourself go. I left it alone for a day and the second listen was much more successful. Loved it. The tune is very dramatic. The hook is sick and has a great message that even though you have gone through some shit, don’t give up. The video is at the bottom. You’re welcome.

Key lyric: “Some of us we fall short…Direction we want more.”

“Dear Sarah”

Listen Really Carefully to this one.

I am 80′s baby, so growing up in the early to late 90′s, this tune was really reminiscent of the music of those times. “Dear Sarah, wipe your eyes and fight…” I took this one literally, and it seems to just be this really strong and hopeful track. And I think more people than you might assume would be able to relate.

“1989″

All bad. I don’t know if this was from real experience, or from inspiration. Hopefully the latter, but we all know this stuff is real talk. He paints this excruciatingly painful picture and tosses you right in the middle of it. And I really dig songs like that. Imagery is a big deal, and it adds to the depth of the song. The movie lines really tied it together and made it solid play.

Key lyric: “Listen to your heart. And keep movin’ on.”

I don’t think it’s a mystery that I liked this album. And believe me– I’m just as surprised that I liked it as quickly as I did. Usually things have to grow on me over weeks, months, and years.

So, here’s to you, Mr. Robinson. High-five, dude. Right on. Way to make a statement and let the world know that you’re not fuckin around, and that you’re for real. I can’t wait to see how many people you can touch with your words and tunes. Good luck, guy.

-Chanelle Molina

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