Rojor’s latest release, ‘Love is the Strongest Force’, arrives on Friday 1st November, offering an uplifting and eclectic musical experience that Rojor is known for. The Teesside-based singer-songwriter continues to draw from a diverse set of musical influences to deliver a sound that is fresh yet familiar.
The album’s core theme, displayed clearly through the title, revolves around the transformative and healing power of love – not just romantic love, but love in a broader, universal sense. This message is most palpable in the title track, ‘Love is the Strongest Force’, which features a relaxed arrangement of smooth rhythms, subtle reggae undertones, and Rojor’s emotive vocals. The track is a warm and soothing reminder of the potential for unity, even in dark times.
The opening track, ‘Running for Cover’, begins with an electronic touch and future-esque strings before easing into Rojor’s laid-back style as he highlights the beauty of nature seen through the eyes of a lover, with a catchy synth echoing through the chorus. Meanwhile, the track ‘New Year’s Eve’ pops with a sultriness reminiscent of Sade, as Rojor longs to be with a lover, telling them to meet him on New Year’s Eve “on the bridge where the rivers meet…midnight when the bells chime, be together till the end of time.” This longing is also reflected in the track ‘Look for a Reason (It’s Always Love)’. The track features chiming guitars and a plucked bassline that follows Rojor throughout the entire song.
‘My Sweet Exile’ explores the sadder side of love – love that is no longer there. The track contains a non-stop beat that loops in the listener’s ears as though the drum is being played in the centre of one’s brain. Rojor speaks of being exiled from a past relationship, but despite this, his feelings of love remain the same: “Though I smile, my sweet exile, doesn’t change/rearrange the way I feel about you, the way I feel without you.”
The closing track, ‘Before You Go’, continues this reflective look at love. The track speaks of that vulnerable moment when two lovers separate and desperation comes to the forefront to keep the relationship alive, even if it is ultimately in vain. The slow nature of the track, with its stretched-out strings, echoes the finality of this love but hints at the possibility of turning things around one day.
Where ‘Love is the Strongest Force’ truly shines is in its authenticity. Rojor’s songwriting is introspective but never heavy-handed. He’s able to communicate the various lenses of love – from its power to unite and its ability to make the world seem even more beautiful, to the longing and regretful parts of love. Rojor shows both sides of the coin with grace and melody, retaining his laid-back style while experimenting with new musical touches.
Overall, ‘Love is the Strongest Force’ is a welcome and hopeful addition to Rojor’s discography. His ability to craft songs that are both heartfelt and introspective makes this album a must-listen for anyone looking for music that soothes while allowing for contemplation of that most powerful – and undefinable – feeling that is love.
You can listen to the album from Friday 1st November on all major streaming platforms.
