Robert O'Connor ::: Resistance

Robert O’Connor is no novice when it comes to singing and song writing as he has been doing it since 2006. When you consider that he has been around that long, it begs the question: Why have we not been hearing more of his music? The reason being, his brand of acoustic country-esque pop, is not something for everybody, and perhaps his previous work has not been aimed at an agreeable audience.

“Resistance” is O’Connor’s latest EP, consisting of four very likable songs, each one perfectly produced and timed. The singer’s lyrics are very simple, which in most cases would be a downfall, but while they are indeed transparent and uncomplicated, they do not veer into the realm of childishness as so many songs with easy lyrics tend to do. One negative thing about this kind of lyricism that is incredibly difficult to avoid is that it can prove to be unmoving and irritating. This is something which O’Connor managed to avoid for most of this EP, an exception coming from ‘resistance’: “I’m knocking on your door/leaving you voice mails/ text messaging you/sending you emails.” This is a very uninspired and frustrating lyric particularly the use of the phrase “text messaging you” and in some ways it takes away from the maturity of the EP, and indeed the song itself; perhaps it would be better placed in a boy band’s love song because it certainly seems out of place here.

O’Connor’s voice is consistently pleasant throughout the EP, keeping an even key and conveying a beautiful country style lilt from time to time, however it would have possibly made things more interesting had the singer been more daring with his vocals. While it would not necessarily be marketed as a country music EP, the elements of the genre within “older” are impossible to ignore and it would be a delightful addition to any soft country music fan’s collection. This comparison is especially made possible by the EP’s second track “Too Late”, a catchy, feel-good number that is genuinely the best track on the EP, and the one most likely to get O’Connor some radio airplay.

The EP has enormous potential, however it is lacking in any attention grabbing elements, which, once more, could be remedy by simply being a bit adventurous with the vocals. It is certainly not an album for everybody, but once O’ Connor and those working with him are aware of the audience most likely to buy his music (arguably an older audience with a penchant for country-style music), upon an album release, he is sure to get the boost he needs.

Review by Claire Kane