Connor Maynard - Contrast

Connor Maynard
Contrast
Parlophone

Seeing covers of songs posted on YouTube is a daily activity for many internet users. When you listen to them, your response is likely one of these: “They’re horrible!” or “Hey, they have a pretty good voice.” Something must have stood out to R&B artist Ne-Yo as he watched Conor Maynard’s cover of his own song, “Beautiful Monster.” Maynard is a 19-year-old British singer who began posting his covers on YouTube nearly four years ago. Ne-Yo became Maynard’s mentor and helped build him up to the singer he is today. This story might sound familiar as Justin Bieber was discovered in a similar way, when Usher saw his videos on YouTube. Maynard’s career has skyrocketed since being discovered and he was named MTV’s Brand New in early 2012.  

Maynard’s debut album, “Contrast,” was released July 30th and peaked at number one on the UK Albums chart. Three tracks off of the album have been released as singles: “Can’t Say No,” “Vegas Girl” and “Turn Around.” The music video for “Turn Around” was released on Sept. 10.    

The teen has already found his sound. The album has a cross between an R&B and dance feel, with catchy tunes and a voice that fits in nicely with the contemporary pop scene. On the same note, many of the songs on the album sound too similar. There are some that are standouts through their unique sound, such as “Mary Go Round” and “Another One.” Other than that, Maynard’s songs feel too similar which can make you a little bored with his music.

The lyrics give off a very typical pop feel. He covers the usual subjects of trying to get a girl, finally being with her, and the bitter breakup that follows. Without much art in his lyrics, they seem shallow and will make you scoff at the wording: some of them are downright awkward.    

Are you looking for some feel- good music and don’t worry so much about the lyrics?

If so, this is the album for you. With the mix between pop and R&B sound, Conor Maynard delivers an album that’s fun and easy to listen to, although it lacks the crafted lyrics and variety in sound that would put it over the top.