Released on January 1 this year, ‘The Narrator’, from Stuart Conrad Osterman, sees the culmination of an intense six months period for the singer-songwriter.
‘The Narrator’ is available to stream and download here.
Comprising 23 tracks, ‘The Narrator’ is deeply personal with a hidden message – the first letter of each of the tracks spells out “SYSTEM ID DOGFACES MUZZLED”, which in turn adds a further layer of mystery to the release.
The album has been dedicated to Stuart’s wife, Joanna, without whose support and patience the project would not have been possible, and takes its inspiration from narration, with a music video to introduce it, made in the music section of Dundee Library. The album is around an hour long, and while this may seem daunting to start with, each track is upbeat and catchy, ensuring that time just slips away before you even realise it.
You can watch the introductory video below.
Osterman, who has an extensive music career spanning decades that is both prolific and genre-defying, started learning guitar 42 years ago, and has so far released a mammoth 23 albums, as well as 36 singles and EPs. The narrator continues in his signature style, which blends alternative, techno, classical, pop, country, dance, blues, and global influences. In ‘The Narrator’, the listener goes from anthemic tracks such as ‘The Lullaby’, straight into rap/trap style tracks, like ‘Eating Good’. The music incorporates experimental rhythms and sounds, making sure that the listener’s interest is constantly held.
Osterman’s musical ethos has been one of using his musical mistakes and transforming them into something wonderful: if it sounds good, it belongs in the song. During the COVID-19 lockdown, he turned more and more to music as an outlet and a lifeline, with his passion for composing and producing restored to its previous flame.
It’s impossible to put a finger on which track from ‘The Narrator’ could be considered a standout, as each one is beautifully made and a joy to listen to, whether on its own or as part of the concept album. Further into the album, with track 13, ‘Are You Ready To Let Your Demons Go’, you start to get a really potent grasp of what Osterman is going for, and the lyrics be relatable to anyone who’s experienced the frustration of wanting to move on, but at the same time fully aware that there’s no turning back once you do.
Listen to ‘The Narrator’ and take some time to pull apart the multi-layered instrumentals, rhythms, and at times haunting vocals. You can stream and download ‘The Narrator’ here. Find out more about Stuart Conrad Osterman and his music online on Instagram, Facebook, Spotify, and Apple Music.
