Featuring poetic and heartfelt lyricism alongside stirring arrangements, Unfocused Freedom is the riveting debut album from Maya Shaw. An artful depiction of self-growth and improvement takes hold within, capturing the power of growing beyond insecurities and embracing one’s true self. Shaw’s most notable artistic inspiration is that of Irwin Robert Shaw, a noted New York-based poet and the artist’s late grandfather. Shaw stumbled upon a collection of his works at age 15, and a strong influence was established since then, despite having never met in person.
“I took it upon myself as a life mission to bring him back to life through his words, to make his poetry an infinity that leaves a lasting mark on this world, something that would live on, both through me and him, bridging the gap between the living and the dead,” Shaw explains. “The album also includes three special tracks featuring original recordings of Irwin’s voice, which I’ve edited and set to music. These tracks bring a magical and deeply meaningful impact, making his presence even more felt throughout the album.”
“Chrysalis” is a beautiful opener, pairing introspective lyricism with a piano-driven illumination. “Hold me close, let go of your dignity,” Shaw sings alongside trickling piano momentum. The pleas to let go of vulnerabilities, and value one’s inner emotions, plays with comforting reassurances. The track title evokes transformation from a cocoon, and the songwriting is a compelling showcase of self-transformation from hesitation to confident embrace.
The ensuing “Mantra” begins with a questioning of “where am I?” — an apt continuation of personal exploration, and leading into the moving “Loneliness.” “At the bottom of the world, where she leads me,” the vocals enchant there, bolstered quickly by reflective strings that hasten the overall pace and intensity. References to loneliness and “a war,” cast a melancholic, climactic fervency — propelled further by the ravishing string arrangements. Unfocused Freedom opens in gripping form with these highlights.
The city-set engrossment of “Freedom” is enthralling, combining a yearning to attain “the land of freedom,” amidst heart-tugging strings and melodic, wintry piano tones. Depictions of running, but failing to escape personal limitations, builds into the “I want freedom in the most unfocused way,” desires — invigorating in its portrayal of moving on from personal, lingering tumult; “Freedom” combines passionate instrumentation with impassioned pleas for a wholly memorable listening experience.
Soulful piano vibrancy and bright choral vocal backings adorn “May The World / A Child’s Prayer,” presenting a hopeful and radiant charm in its encouragement to take chances and believe in the light within life. “The sun will shine on you,” the vocals ring out in the final minute. Album finale “44 Pieces” is a fully satiating send-off, weaving classical guitar lushness and vocal mystique with exotic flair. Its depictions of secret love provide ample intrigue. “44 pieces of love, will always stay the same,” the ending vocals consume, ending the album with a stylish and emotive captivation.
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This and other tracks featured this month can be streamed on the updating Obscure Sound’s ‘Emerging Singles’ Spotify playlist.
