Tom Grennan once said about writing songs whilst being dyslexic "mentally I put songs on a washing line. So then I pick the odd socks , lyrically. And then I put an odd sock to an odd sock and think "How can I make that a pair of pearly whites "
Well , those pearly whites have come to fruition in the shape of his highly anticipated debut album Lightning Matches which drops on March 9th 2018. The Bedford singer songwriters lyrical approach may be unorthodox, But the man himself has built up a legion of fans with his everyman personality coupled with a raw and emotive voice that is set to soundtrack 2018.
It could all have been so different for the 21 year old though. Instead of lining up a long awaited debut album , Tom could have found himself on the England team heading to Russia next summer. Grennan had a promising football career , running out for Northampton Town , Lution Town , Aston Villa and Stevenage.
However he'll just have to make do with lighting up next summers festival circuit. Its probably just as well Glastonbury is on hiatus next summer as Grennan would more than likely steal the show down Worthy Farm.
Tom discovered that unmistakeable voice at a "piss up " and his head was soon turned by music. Its little stories like this that have endeared him to an ever increasing faithful.
Dates for his tour next year are already vanishing ahead of the release of his hotly anticipated debut album Lightning Matches on March 9th
For a guy who at the tender age of 21 is on the cusp of stardom , Grennan's voice sounds older than his year. A primal , raw and gravelly voice infused with warmth , emotion and true grit. His lyrics and songs are certainly that of a 21 year old finding his way in this crazy world. None so more evident on the rousing closing track of his stunning EP Release The Brakes , the fantastic This Is The Age.
"raise a glass to those who choose to live without. I dont need no keys for a castle or a ticket to the stars. So close your eyes and know how lucky you are "
Grennan as you can guess from his surname , has Irish blood running through his Bedford born veins and his voice recalls the earthy , gritty soul that emanates from a good old fashioned Irish session.
On the awesone Royal Highness , Tom displays an irresistible swagger on an absolute stomper of a track. Bowed down and beseeched to his lady in waiting , its a track that will cause much fervour during his upcoming UK dates.
The video shows the sheer star quality of the guy. Evidence of this was further displayed in his cameo in Charli XCX's Boys video. And with his down to earth charm and lush vocals , Grennan doesn't look at all out of place with such pop pin ups as Joe Jonas and Dplo. In fact he clearly belongs there
His Found What I've Been Looking For EP is a joy to listen to from start to finish.The title track , which he recently performed on primetime Friday night BBC1 music show Sounds Like Friday Night. It is my track of the year here at The Playlist.
A sure fire anthem that will be the soundtrack to many a festival weekend next summer.
Interestingly enough , Tom has stated that he listens to at least one Amy Winehouse track a day. And if the late great Queen of Camden Town could break your heart with vulnerability and soaring vocals. Then Tom does exactly the same on the demo of Silhouette. Its raw , vulnerable and as soaring as the London skyline. Here is where Grennan stretches his vocal muscles to devastating effect. He sounds wise beyond his years yet coupled with the fragility of early adulthood. Its a stunning track.
And just before that track were treated to the jaunty First Day Of The Sun. Another uplifting , bouncy , festival bound sing a long. Grennan goes from the highs of youth - partying with your mates , falling in love to the lows such as heartbreak and self doubt. It just shows how adept he is at veering from ripping your heart out one minute and making you sing your heart out the next.
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2018 is set to be the year of Tom Grennan. In these uncertain times of Brexit and Trump , Grennan and his voice and youthful vigour are balm for the soul. The Bedford boy done good will break your heart , lift your sagging spirits and more than likely make more than a few girls and some boys fall in love with him in the coming year.
Your summer festival soundtrack Lightning Matches drops on March 9th. And when it does , stand a few inches back cos Tom Grennan is bringing the fire in 2018. And long may the flames roar
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