On their new album, "Grounded," Displaced Stranger comes across as surprisingly clear and sure of themselves. The project has 12 songs and lasts just under 53 minutes. It feels well-paced and emotionally steady, just like the title suggests. This is someone who is taking their time to learn how to sit with their ideas and let them breathe.
"Grounded" sets a reflective tone from the very first moments and keeps it going throughout the album. The songwriting and arrangement show a clear sense of patience, suggesting that the artist is more interested in creating an atmosphere than in following trends. That's not something you see very often on a debut album, but it works in Displaced Stranger's favor here.
Standout songs like "Pipe Dreams" and "Blossoms" show off the project's emotional heart. "Pipe Dreams" encourages self-reflection and offers plenty of space for listening, making it fun to listen to again and again. At the same time, "Blossoms" feels like a quiet moment of growth that gets better the longer you sit with it. These songs show how naturally Displaced Stranger can make music, even at this early point in their journey.
What makes Grounded so interesting is how well it all fits together. The mood remains consistent throughout all 12 songs, so it doesn't get boring. Instead, the album slowly reveals itself, giving listeners time to connect with its ideas and textures. It's the kind of record that works best when you listen to it all the way through, so you can feel all of its emotions.
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