Review by Adam Jones - MUSIC FARMER 5
Hal Savar's "Next Year" is an epic ode to hope
Hal Savar's single "Next Year" is an emotive and rousing anthem that seamlessly blends elements of folk, rock, and blues. Showcasing a musical prowess that is both captivating and thought-provoking, Savar weaves a rich tapestry of sound that invites listeners to explore their own experiences of resilience and unity.
Savar's distinctive voice, with its gritty rasp, calls to mind the likes of an even-more-lucid Bruce Springsteen. His vocal prowess elevates the song's emotional heft, encouraging listeners to forge a personal connection with the lyrics. Backed by a powerful combination of driving drums, acoustic guitar, soaring strings, and deep percussion, the song achieves an anthemic quality that is hard to ignore.
As the song builds to its final crescendo, with all elements intensifying then suddenly dropping out, Savar's voice is left alone while it triumphantly declares "Maybe next year," instilling a sense of unwavering determination. This moment serves as the crux of the song's core message, which Savar explains is about finding hope amidst the strife of the Covid pandemic.
