Adam Newman - Sissy

Adam Newman

Sissy
self-released; 2022

By My Nguyen​

Right when you hit play on Sissy, you are immediately pulled into the music by Adam Newman’s vulnerable yet emotional powerful vocals. The artist makes the kind of soaring ballads that will be a rush to your senses. Filled with everything from strings, synths, piano, electronic riffs, guitars, bass, drums and percussion, the music is filled with momentum and lush elements. Newman’s soft vocals tug on your consciousness as his dreamy sound lulls you into an entranced state. Newman’s hypnotic sound is enticing!

Sissy gets started with the title track “Sissy,” where electronic riffs, percussion and synths come in with a full-on vibe. The piano also figures into this arrangement. Newman’s vocals are a rush of sound. There is a hushed expectancy to his vocals that provide a soothing effect. The strings were a wonderful addition, adding an orchestral element to the already powerful arrangement. Newman sings with a vulnerability and feeling that I think will definitely take listeners to that sweet spot. A beautiful piano melody adds a moody vibe to the overall sounds on “Electric.” Newman’s vocals are awash with emotion on this song. The vibe was very melancholy. As Newman’s voice takes flight on this track, you get the sense that Newman is wearing his heart on his sleeve as this song takes on a personal slant. There was a vulnerability to this track that I felt will move a lot of listeners. “Daddy Was A Pistol” is another moody ballad from the artist. The piano accompanied by the sound of percussion made for an especially sultry sound. I was loving the stripped yet immediate sound here. It made for a great listen. Afterward, a full band sound unfolds, making the music even more dynamic. 

On “What World Is This,” the piano evokes an ominous sound here. With a somber approach, Newman’s entrancing vocals tie the music together. Another ballad in the melancholy vein, this felt like a pensive song that will leave a lot of listeners in a contemplative mood. Synthetic strings add a compelling layer on “Dreamphone.” Next, some upbeat piano comes through for an invigorating vibe. The energy of this track is different from the other more somber songs. I thought this uplifting sound from the artist was ear-pleasing. This proved to be a good direction for the artist as he closes the record with this touching send-off.

​The production on this EP is really amazing. But the album has a tendency to be a little overwhelming. Newman fills his tracks with different elements from different instruments and sometimes I found this clashing against the dream-like sound he is going for. Maybe paring down for a more stripped back feel will enhance the music. I look forward to seeing the artist’s evolution in the not-so-distant future.

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