The new acoustic ballad “Answer Phone” by Tom Odell explores the disassociated thoughts of a young man’s reflections on life.
Over the years, Tom Odell has become recognised for his poetic lyrics on love and heartbreak. In his new single, “Answer Phone”, Tom investigates a different but similarly depressing theme: loneliness. A familiar feeling for many, like Tom, in their late twenties. The lyrics convey the lonely state many people find themselves in as they depart from adolescence and begin understanding who they are.
The success of “Answer Phone” in conveying this lonely state lies in its arrangement. Moreover, using a simple rhythmic acoustic guitar paired with sombre, reflective lyrics, Tom creates a piece of music that will likely leave you emotionally touched and gripping to every word.
Loneliness
The ballad hits straight from the strum of the first chord. Furthermore, there is a heavy emphasis on acoustic guitar, which continues throughout the song in a repeating rhythm and lies beautifully underneath the hollow vocals—pairing to convey the familiar thoughts of loneliness and detachment. The string arrangement at the track’s halfway point sweeps through like a gust of wind. It echoes the fear of time slipping away, which appears throughout the track.
As the track reaches the climax, we are told to “smile”; Tom reiterates this four times. Concluding the song with the simple instruction, “Smile, even if you’re feeling sad”. Ending this reflective ballad with powerful lyrics provides some helpful advice we sometimes need.
Overall, this new single from Tom Odell offers a touching ballad of loneliness with a surprisingly inspirational message to keep smiling.
So, wait no longer! You can stream the new single, “Answer Phone” by Tom Odell here. Also, be sure to let us know your thoughts to this release by commenting on our social media post.
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