Singer/songwriter Sam Fender has been making waves for himself in the indie scene. His newest album, Seventeen Going Under, debuted Friday via Interscope Records. The album is a strikingly honest and charmingly personal record.
The album follows his 2019 debut Hypersonic Missiles. Sam Fender has caught the attention of names such as Billboard and Alternative Press with his latest singles off of Seventeen Going Under. He also recently graced the cover of the first-ever Rolling Stone UK issue.
“I didn’t want to write about Covid because fucking no one is ever going to want to hear about that ever again, so this time I went inwards,” – Sam Fender.
When writing the record, Fender opens up about the loneliness of COVID and, like many, the lack of inspiration he faced. “I didn’t have anyone to write about. I’ve always relied on that stuff. On hearsay, rumours, stories, gossip… gossip made mankind,” he shared. “I didn’t want to write about Covid because fucking no one is ever going to want to hear about that ever again, so this time I went inwards.”
Listening to the album:
Seventeen Going Under opens up with the title track, a ballad of truth and memories set to bouncy instrumentals. “Getting Started” takes the listener through lyrics of perseverance and growth. “Aye” confronts the political climate of today’s world and the 1%. The album picks back up with the cinematic beats of “Get You Down,” “The Leveller” and “Paradigms.”
One of the most stand-out tracks on the album is “Mantra,” with its feel-good instrumentals and elements of saxophone and chimes. Fender slows things down with more raw and intimate tracks “Spit Of You,” “Last To Make It Home,” “The Dying Light” and “Good Company.”
Lastly, closing track “Poltergeists” is a virtuous self-reflection, set to striking piano and soaring vocals.
“This album is a coming-of-age story. It’s about growing up. It’s a celebration of life after hardship, it’s a celebration of surviving,” reflects Fender on the album.
In Seventeen Going Under, Sam Fender combines vulnerable, honest experiences with intricate melodies. He presents the listener with a seemingly cinematic experience. The beats make you want to roll down your window and feel the wind on your hand, while the lyrics make you feel something real and inspiring.
Seventeen Going Under is available now.