★ ★ ★ ★ out of 5
Early last year, Canadian pop artist Julian Daniel shared the endearing and sharp “Sidekick”, detailing high school romance regrets over Phil Collins-esque drums. The honest storytelling and passionate vocal performance made an impact.
Following a few other single releases in 2019, Daniel now serves up his debut extended play E-BOY. In the span of only five tracks, the artist weaves through uptempo electro-pop tracks and folk-styled ballads while continuously showcasing an ear for radio-ready hooks and sincerity.
“Sidekick” was only the beginning of something special. The extended play eliminates any room for filler, touches on topics of social media fame, close-minded small towns and liberation, and highlights a genuine appreciation for the pop genre.
The effort’s title track sheds light on an obsession and need for validation through likes and comments. “E-BOY” dives into a subculture where real-life connection is unnecessary; communities are now created via the web. With suave confidence, Daniel makes a case for individuality and power through a system of ones and zeros. Virtual compliments are compliments nonetheless, right?
“Sad Boy” is encased in hip-hop flare as Daniel targets a former fling for their lack of authenticity and honesty. The appearance of slight fame can corrupt and the artist is bitter, perhaps not any better, after a presumed break up. “And you finessed your whole life, now you’re basking in the likes, and you’re banging on the screen, kicking, screaming, trying to leave,” he sings, on the verge of tears.
Daniel works to escape the pressures of a small town on “Suburbia”, an euphoric electro-pop effort where the artist dreams of something more. Fed up with close-minded thinking and broken dreams, tamed instrumentals create a safe environment for growth. The bittersweet subject matter is delivered though controlled, smooth vocals and an intoxicating sense of hope.
Fellow Canadian pop artist Veronica accompanies Daniel on the breezy, tranquil “Lemontree”. When life gets tough, it is comforting to know you have refuge, among familiar scenery with a familiar face by your side. The warm, uptempo production of the woke pop anthem is its highlight, along with the vocal chemistry between the duo. “If we get caught, I know where we can go, back to the fields, where the lemon trees grow,” they belt.
The short and sweet extended play closes out with “Sidekick”, a glorious pop moment that kickstarted Daniel’s current creative era. Daniel weaves through serene production as he pushes rewind on life to redo and alter certain important decisions. Strengthening and finding confidence in his vocals, the young artist makes a convincing case for a previous suitor to want to reignite the flame. That possibility doesn't come without hesitation and nerves though.
E-BOY exudes promise and skill. Over the past year, Daniel has perfected his ear for pop hooks and used it to elevate commanding vocal performances throughout the five-track effort that still give off a perception of innocence, whether that be true or not. The artist dives into an alternative tech universe to escape the confides of real life. In this new world, Daniel is able to break out of his shell and thrive. Whether angry and vengeful or at peace with his surroundings, Daniel never swerves off a path of authenticity, even if he is embracing a persona or traits that many might not understand. To him, that doesn't matter.
Tracks to Hear: "E-Boy", "Lemontree" and "Sidekick"
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