Sheffield alternative singer-songwriter Sam Scherdel returns with a distinctive Britpop sound intertwined with his gritty, soulful voice.
The romantic upbeat single ‘Balloon’ gripped South Yorkshire and various established platforms back in March, including BBC Introducing, which created greater recognition for the artist’s newly polished material. The song did not take long to impress as Scherdel’s quickly delivered lyrics followed the pace of the beat before breaking out into a moving, anthemic finish.
Fans can be reassured that ‘R.E.T.R.O’ will not miss the mark either. Written amid the first lockdowns of 2021, this release is equally as poignant as the last, adding another touching track to Scherdel’s honest and heartfelt setlist.
The singer describes the song as a “bittersweet pop record that contains the message to appreciate what you have whilst you have it, as the moment it’s gone is the moment it hurts.” In just over three and a half minutes, both the tone and message of the song ultimately make for something that is guaranteed to raise self-esteem. The music video featuring Samantha Siddall (Shameless) contrasts this somewhat presenting a glimpse of a hopeful but ill-fated relationship.
A cleverly constructed bridge is by far the most standout part of ‘R.E.T.R.O’. Scherdel and the band gradually build up their hopeful message – “somewhere there is a chance for me” – before a final chorus that underlines the discovery of the song, knowing “what’s to lose and what to find”. The greater pop feeling that flows throughout helps Scherdel to maintain some ambivalence this time, forming a track that will resonate widely with fans old and new.
The single’s release marks the halfway point in Sam Scherdel’s live tour of the UK, which includes a supporting performance for Two Door Cinema Club at Doncaster Dome on 25th October. If the singer continues his current trajectory with tunes like ‘R.E.T.R.O’, there will undoubtedly be a chance for him somewhere.
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