This interplay of light and dark continues with ‘A Little Bit Closer’, where a different kind of high is chased; pulsating bass builds into a rich chorus where Sam addresses spiritual love with newfound openness. If this is what religion preaches, he seems to concede, it can’t be that bad. Meanwhile, ‘
Crumbling Empire’ offers his most collected political commentary to date, trading fury for thoughtful reflection. “I don’t wear the shoes I used to walk in,” he admits, weaving this sentiment into a wider narrative of labour and familial ties. The grungy rhythm of ‘
TV Dinner’ then amplifies this touchstone of disconnection and distance, examining fame’s isolating impact with striking sincerity.
