Eric Contractor’s “In the Shadows” is as vulnerable as it is gloomy

Sup? is a feature franchise on UNXIGNED where we literally just answer the category in question and give you some insights into a promising artist or band’s work. In this Sup? issue, we present to you Eric Contractor and his latest song, “In the Shadows”.

Making sense of things after a hard break up can be… complicated, to say the least. However, indie noir-rocker Eric Contractor attempts to do just that (and succeeds) on his latest single.

With “In the Shadows”, released last month, Contractor has crafted a moody indie pop piece that’s as vulnerable as it is gloomy. The track is certainly emotionally heavy, fueled by moody lyrics reflecting on the throes of a past relationship and the struggle to move on from emotional pain.

The music reflects Contractor’s search for acceptance as a heavy orchestral chorus is paired with more instrumentally stripped-back verses, mirroring the fleeting moments of clarity following a break up. Colorfully composed guitars and a thick drum beat are coated in reverb, giving the track a noir atmosphere.

But the single’s most glamorous highlight is Contractor’s beautifully controlled baritone voice. Dancing between vocal passages that are both reserved and flamboyant, he’s not afraid to show off his range and virtuosity as a singer.

In short, Contractor’s dark soundscapes and wistful aestheticism finds meaning in heartbreak.

Stream “In the Shadows” below.

Derek Tate

Derek is a writer, record collector, gardener, and all-around music lover. He lives in Iowa with his plants and his dog, Toby.