NOEL

Swedish singer NOEL offers an unconventional perspective on love and regret with the release of his new single, ‘Flowers At A Funeral’.

What do you get when you mix a Swedish musician with one of life’s saddest events? No, I’m afraid it’s not a stiffly delivered, darkly inappropriate punchline.

If, instead, you guessed a radio-ready, easy-listening track about self-critique while trying to hold onto the beauty in a relationship that was never meant to be, then you’re a clairvoyant genius with a multimillion-pound empire in your future.

For everyone else, the future holds an enjoyable, if quirky, tune that sounds like a mix between Shawn Mendes and The Lumineers. So, basically the same thing… Right?

Since 2023, NOEL has released a string of emotional, polished pop ballads. To the artist’s credit, his latest single ‘Flowers At A Funeral’ is a successful addition to his catalogue.

“Like flowers at a funeral, and only when it’s over, it’s beautiful,” NOEL sings.

The song’s unconventional concept strives to balance pained self-doubt and critique surrounding the breakup while looking back on the highs despite the wreckage. The funeral analogy might be a tad odd, but with the Swede’s magnetic vocal chops, he pulls it off effortlessly. His performance carries enough heart to guide the audience through his turmoil, and his passion lifts the listener through the song’s melodic highs.

Musically, the track may be led largely by acoustic accompaniment, but it will fit right at home on pop radio. From the gentle guitar opening, the momentum is continually maintained.

The drums boom along, a banjo is plucked merrily, and backing vocals lend an ethereal calm.

The artist uses his voice to great effect with aching passion, which not only conveys the emotion of the story but also gently builds the song towards its crescendo.

Overall, the quirky ‘Flowers At A Funeral’ is an impressive all-rounder. The gentle pop maintains the song’s energy while ensuring it doesn’t overpower the track’s emotional core.

Photo credit: BLNK Music