RedazioneRobert O’Connor returns with his latest release, Something Strange, a dream-pop-infused synth-pop track that effortlessly merges atmospheric elegance with electronic pop charm. Following the success of his summer hit “Everything You Wanted,” which garnered over 60,000 streams on Spotify and landed on more than 500 playlists, Something Strange marks a new chapter in O’Connor’s musical evolution. Co-written by O’Connor and produced by long-time collaborator Gareth Shortland, the track has already created a buzz as the final piece of the puzzle for O’Connor’s forthcoming long-player.
Upon first listen, Something Strange immediately captivates with its lush, layered production. The song’s heartbeat comes from its rhythmic foundation—meticulously crafted, yet soft enough to allow the dreamy soundscape to breathe. The rhythm is subtle yet persistent, providing a pulse that drives the track forward. The beat strikes a perfect balance, staying energetic without overwhelming the delicate texture of the song. It feels like a steady flow, enhancing the song’s meditative quality, a reflection of O’Connor’s peaceful state when writing the track.
At the core of the arrangement lies a punchy yet understated bassline, an essential element of the song’s dream-pop ambiance. The bassline adds depth and weight, grounding the otherwise ethereal melodies. Its presence is like a shadow—always there, but never imposing. It’s a driving force that supports the song’s shimmering synths and ensures that the track never veers too far into an overly ambient zone. Instead, it anchors the listener, giving them something steady to latch onto while the other sonic elements swirl around.
Speaking of the synths, they are undoubtedly the standout feature of Something Strange. The track’s lush electronic textures evoke a sense of warmth and serenity, perfectly complementing O’Connor’s crystalline vocals. The synth work is intricate, yet feels organic—flowing effortlessly from one melodic line to the next. The production exudes a sense of sophistication, with layered synths that ebb and flow like gentle waves, creating an immersive listening experience. There’s a sense of nostalgia in the synth tones, reminiscent of 80s new wave, but updated for modern sensibilities.
The atmosphere O’Connor creates is one of serene contentment, which is fitting given the song’s inspiration. Written while O’Connor was sitting by a rooftop pool in Barcelona, Something Strange radiates a sense of peace and fulfillment. The lyrics, though simple, are heartfelt and reflective, embodying the inner calm O’Connor felt in that moment. His vocal delivery is clean and emotive, offering a sense of vulnerability that draws the listener in. Paired with the ethereal instrumentation, the song feels like a comforting embrace, a moment of clarity amidst the chaos of life.
For those wanting even more from the track, there’s plenty to look forward to. A six-minute extended mix promises to expand on the song’s already intricate layers, allowing listeners to dive even deeper into its lush soundscape. Additionally, an acoustic version produced by Jordan Arteaga will showcase the track’s emotional core in a stripped-back format, offering a new perspective on O’Connor’s songwriting.
Overall, Something Strange is a masterclass in dream-pop and synth-pop. It’s atmospheric, emotional, and meticulously crafted—an example of electronic pop at its finest. With its evocative soundscapes and introspective lyrics, it’s a track that will linger with listeners long after the final note fades. As a preview of what’s to come from Robert O’Connor’s forthcoming album, Something Strange sets the bar high, and we’re excited to see where he takes us next.
