Review
‘Blood Stained Heart’, the latest single release by Darren Hayes, represents a real game changer in his album Secret Codes and Battleships.
The song starts with a slow and gentle approach which almost tricks the listener into thinking this would be a breathy and anaemic declaration of love. But in next to no time the pace shifts into a higher gear and the volume increases to give the music a stronger and almost aggressive quality. The vocals also set this song apart from other contenders thanks in no small part to the pure sincerity that Hayes is able to force into every word he sings. The combination of these makes this a real pleasure for the ears and will make it an instant favorite for fans, both old and new.
The lyrics as well make a welcome change from what we are typically used to hearing. Songs of love normally take the tried and tested route of ‘love conquers all’. However, Hayes forgoes tradition to create something more evocative of real love and the transformative power it has on people. The lyrics are about fighting for love, even if it proves to be a loosing battle, and being there for each other until the end.
The track’s most unique selling point has to be its ability to take the traditional qualities of ballads from the early 90s and translate it into the new millennium with a harder more brittle edge. This gives the song an identity in a world of mass produced power ballads with an over reliance on high production values, and crooning men in their mid-twenties. In short the track will leave a lasting impression long after the music stops, and will almost immediately make you want to hit repeat, just to hear it again.
With its slightly raw and ragged take on love, ‘Blood Stained Heart’ will not be the song that makes you get up and run to the dance floor. However thanks to its impressive lyrics and a real sense of heartfelt passion, it will be the track you want playing on your wedding day.
‘Blood Stained Heart’ is due for general release on 27 February 2012
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