Grand’s new album opens on a catchy note with “Walking,” and it is followed by the dark and intense “Pink Champagne,” and the piano-driven “Disciple,” which is the song that he claimed as his personal favorite on the CD.
The haunting “Don’t Let the Light In” is one of the highlight tracks on the collection, and it displays Grand’s fresh new sound. His crisp voice is evident on the soothing “Safe and Sound.” “Ain’t It Something” is more nonchalant and mellow, while the lyrics of the title track “Not the End of Me” are pure poetry.
After the harking “All I Want,” he picks up the pace with the upbeat and refreshing “You or the Music” and it closes with “Can’t Go Back,” which is filled with raw emotions.
It closes with two acoustic versions of “Walking” and “Don’t Let the Light in,” and he included his demo of ”
Ain’t It Somethin” as an added bonus.
Not the End of Me is available on iTunes and on Amazon.
The Verdict
Overall, there is no sophomore slump on Steve Grand’s latest studio offering, Not the End of Me. It showcases his growth and maturity as a recording artist. There is a great deal of variety on this project, where every song has a different identity. It contains elements of pop, rock, indie, adult contemporary and electronic music. Most importantly, Grand is brave and not afraid to be vulnerable, and this musical effort with resonate well with his listeners. “Don’t Let the Light in” is worth the price of the entire CD. It is highly recommended for fans of ballads. Not the End of Me garners an A rating.
Read More: Digital Journal chatted with Steve Grand about his new album, and his summer residency at The Art House in Massachusetts.
