Review: Berwyn – Who Am I

Berwyn's album "Who Am I" is a triumph that beautifully encapsulates the artist's multifaceted talents and emotional depth. From the outset, it’s clear that Berwyn has crafted a record that is as much about pop sensibility as it is about profound personal expression.

Berwyn's Who Am I Cover

The album is marked by its ability to blend catchy pop moments with raw, introspective lyrics. The title track, "Who Am I," features a colossal chorus that feels timeless, effortlessly weaving together a sense of grandiosity and emotional resonance. Its sonic joyfulness and the earwormy repetition of the title make it a strong contender for A-list radio play. Similarly, "I Am Black" offers a vibrant, upbeat sound that contrasts sharply with its deeply serious lyrics about racial experiences, creating a striking juxtaposition that amplifies its impact.

One of the standout moments of the album is undoubtedly "Dear Immigration," an impassioned spoken-word piece that serves as a powerful letter to the concept of immigration itself. Here, Berwyn delivers a gut punch of a performance, expressing feelings of alienation and identity with intense clarity.

In contrast, "Neighbours" offers a more everyday poetic touch with lines like, “I love you more than every street of Rizla I licked,” evoking a sense of intimacy and familiarity that resonates on a different level. This shift in tone highlights Berwyn's adeptness at navigating various emotional landscapes and lyrical styles.

The sequencing of the album is masterful, with each track contributing to a cohesive whole. "I’m Drowning" stands out as a poignant acoustic-driven piece, using familiar chord patterns and contemporary vocal effects to create a sound that is both classic and modern. The track's exploration of using alcohol as a coping mechanism follows a series of songs that delve into the root causes of emotional turmoil, enhancing its emotional weight.

*Who Am I* is a record that excels in both pop immediacy and emotional expression. Berwyn's ability to look deeply both inside and outside himself makes this debut album a remarkable achievement. It’s a testament to his versatility and artistry, showcasing a talent that seems capable of achieving almost anything.