Single Review: Tom Collins - Soft Lad

Having recently released the accompanying video, Tom Collins’ latest single ‘Soft Lad’ illustrates a real growth in the singer-songwriter from his previous work. His debut EP Telling Tales, released last October, certainly showed promise - but ‘Soft Lad’ feels more measured and mature, a wonderful track that really connects with the sentiments of his audience.

Its simplicity is absolutely one of the strengths of the track - a perfectly balanced mix of Collins’ vocals, an acoustic guitar, and a piano. The blend of the three sounds gives the track a relaxing bounce from the moment it gets going, and the lack of any percussion allows the listener to pay close attention to the lyrics – something that proves to be especially rewarding.

‘Soft Lad’ makes no effort to hide the fact that it is about just that – a normal guy who struggles to find the truth in his surroundings. He feels out of place in his hometown, is unsure in his love life, and he goes too far when he’s had a few drinks - all things many listeners will be able to relate to, and that lends the song an innate approachability.

It feels at once personal and universal – Collins could very well have written the song about his own experiences as a teenager, but that doesn’t mean he excludes the rest of his audience. In fact, its inclusive outlook is perhaps the strongest element of the track - it isn’t damning, but actually encouraging. It doesn’t put anyone down for having rough teenage years, but instead tells us to remain hopeful, because things will be alright in the end. And right now, that’s a message we all sorely need.

Words: Matt Taylor