Eliza Spear is cast as Protagonist with her sophomore album of the same name, and she is in every sense of the word, just such. Undoubtedly the hero of her own stories, she is equally the champion of her listeners, inviting them to see themselves in her lyrics and music.
Her first single from the album, ‘Lighthouse' sets the stage for what is again a collection of songs rich in truths and vulnerabilities. It is in this space that Eliza as a songwriter clearly excels, she recognises and welcomes listeners finding their own meaning in her work, whilst baring a little of herself at the same time. Lighthouse is a beacon, an honest portrayal of a relationship from the protagonist's viewpoint, sung amidst sweeping melodies and hypnotic drumbeats.
One of the first things I notice is the music is different from Spear's 2022 debut album. ‘Right Now It's Like This' was more acoustically driven, with classical vignettes adding to the subtle complexity of her songwriting, and the theme of soothing her inner child. ‘Protagonist' in contrast, is much larger in sound, with synthesisers and drum machine rhythms heralding the confidence of an adult taking on the world, an artist sure of her place.
A Few Words On The Protagonist Project
Eliza Spear is the definition of a complete creative. Each step she makes towards her musical goals is supported with creativity, from the way she markets her album to her concept baby, the Protagonist Project. The project aims at raising awareness of the rich artistic talent in the city, and getting people excited about it, and wanting to immerse in art. It sounds like my idea of Nirvana, honestly. The second aim by giving strangers off the street a three minute intimate concert, is to ‘give them a moment that is entirely about them.' You can see Eliza talk about the project in her instagram reels, two examples here and below.
Eliza Spear's second album, Protagonist is out NOW!
A full review of the album to follow (Part II), and coincide with the album launch, set for 15 November in Brooklyn, NY.
Before you go…another taster from the album, second single ‘Find Someone Else'. Keep scrolling and you will find links to Eliza's online presence in various forms, where you can listen and buy her album. See you soon for Part II,
Very Lush Production on these songs, many layers indeed. Awesome. Very good voice too.
Wow
I love the idea of leaving the music open to interpretation while still nailing being vulnerable. This was a great article. I loved checking her out.
Cool review