Track listing: I Am The Sun, Divided We Stand, So Very High, Arms Around, Pretty Pretty Things, Smile in the Sun, Peace Pipe, Wanna Be Your Last, Gratitude
Old Soul is the latest album by Michigan-based singer/songwriter Rob Massard. It's a richly written and produced project that shows off Massard's artistic growth since his debut album dropped in 2017. Having set a feverishly prolific pace, Old Soul is his 7th album in as many years.
While The Beatles have been included as an influence by numerous artists over the decades, it was specifically Meet The Beatles that turned young Rob's eyes and ears to the magic of music. By age 7 he was taking guitar lessons and well on the road to a lifetime of musical creativity.
Musically, Massard brought everything plus the kitchen sink to the Old Soul sessions: overarching Pink Floyd-esque synth orchestration, banjo, soaring reverb-rich vocals, strings, piano, and much more. "I Am The Sun" opens the record majestically and dramatically. Tracks like "Arms Around" provide a bit of an emotional counterpoint featuring an emotional vulnerability and solitudinal beauty.
"Smile In The Sun" touches on a bit more of a traditional Folk singer/songwriter feeling, bringing to the table some gorgeous vocal harmonies. "Peace Pipe" is a bit of a mystical change-up, taking the form of a haunting instrumental composition. Old Soul concludes with "Gratitude," a spoken-word affirmation encouraging each listener to express their thanks for the gifts we each have in our lives--take nothing for granted.
Overall, Old Soul offers a veritable cornucopia of sounds and textures. Massard continues to grow both as a songwriter and recording artist. Be sure to follow Rob across his streaming and social platforms. You can begin that journey at robmassard.com.