Gavin DeGraw sweetens image with new album

Fans can now hop off the “Chariot” and indulge themselves in something “Sweeter,” singer and songwriter Gavin DeGraw’s newly released fourth album.

DeGraw hopes to reveal a different side of himself and take his talent to a whole new stage by collaborating with other artists for the first time. Debuting Sept. 20, 2011, the feature tracks include “Not Over You,” co-written with One Republic’s Ryan Tedder, and “Run Every Time,” with The Script’s Andrew Frampton. “Sweeter” uncovers a sexier side of DeGraw and makes him a more prominent artist.

DeGraw’s euphonious piano playing and warm voice is complimented by a gourmet blend of pop rock beats and soulful lyrics. Many tracks in the album are more upbeat than his typically mellow music. DeGraw sings from the heart. Each song is the manifestation of the artist’s advancement to more quality instrumental and vocal levels.

In addition to charismatic harmonies, the album comprises emotional songs about avoiding conflict and fading love. Throughout the album, DeGraw uncharacteristically casts himself as the bad guy.

The opening track reveals an expectedly mischievous and playful side of DeGraw, wherein he wants to steal someone’s girlfriend. “Sweeter” is a cheeky and masculine song playing around with the idea of envy and longing for something unattainable, but will accept the challenge to take anyways.

Veering off the usual elegant and jazzy act, DeGraw explores the modern realm of faster and louder harmony. Each song represents a different, relatable stage in life. A slice of pain and heartache each of us has felt at one time or another in our existence.

The song “Soldier,” true to its title, presents DeGraw’s sincerity and portrayal of himself as a selfless hero. Its soft harmony accompanied by a steady drum rendition is a soothing remedy for the blues and provides a comforting sense of loyalty.

With his song “Radiation,” DeGraw embraces events and sentiments that would otherwise be labeled flawed and better off forgotten. Filled with foot-tapping percussion and complete with a gruff voice for dramatic effect, this track is charming and quirky thanks to its rawness.

In accordance with its title, “Run Every Time” is dedicated to anyone who has ever faced commitment issues. It does not praise patronizing or object to the tug-of-war sentiment that comes along with such an ordeal. The song instead describes what it feels like to get too close someone, and the fluster and confusion that entails. The swirl of emotions in the words is matched perfectly by the song’s voluptuous beats.

DeGraw mixes genuine melodies with funky vocals. Overall, the album displays a  riveting spectrum of his aptitude. DeGraw combines his renown romantic antics with electrifying rock, shedding a spotlight on the singer’s secret witty personality. This album deserves four out of four stars.