The memorable debut album from Nashville-based artist Grayson Foster, Happy Sad Nothing melds consistently hooky pop songwriting with relatable introspection — spanning from ruminations on growing older, and the temptations of hanging onto youth, to experiences with love and relationships. Productions span from orchestral-laden intrigue to ’80s nostalgia and modern pop savvy, maintaining a cohesive enthrallment in its knack for replay-inducement and heartfelt lyrical prowess.
“I’m happy, I’m sad, I’m nothing at all,” Foster’s vocals open the album on the emotive title track, reassuring that “at least I got a woman like you” as mellow keys and gliding guitars build with momentum. A clear sense of appreciation for one’s partner radiates within a dreamy pop arsenal, attaining a particularly blissful entrancement as smooth saxophone and twinkling piano intertwine alongside wordless vocal expressions. The ensuing “Wide Open” continues the introspective charm. “I’m frozen / I’m wide open,” Foster sings amidst jangling guitars and a bouncy bass drive, conjuring an infectious ’80s pop nostalgia crossed with a modern shine, reminiscent fondly of The 1975. Happy Sad Nothing is set into enjoyable motion with a very strong introductory one-two punch.
Another delightful album single, “Tragic Nostalgic” exudes a “chasing a feeling” lyrical sentiment as quaint guitars and climactic rhythms build with immersion. “There’s so much to carry,” Foster lets out, reflecting on the experience of growing older and basking in nostalgia that can be warming though also overly so, in lingering within those past memories. “I’m a tragic nostalgic, can’t do a damn thing about it,” Foster continues, enamoring amidst an effervescent production. “Mom was cooking for me, life was so easy,” the lyrics reflect into “grass is too long” adulthood responsibilities, consuming in its “where has all the time gone?” reflections on the shift from carefree childhood into task-filled adulthood.
A sunrise-set yearning flows on the lovely “See You in the AM,” where a bubbly pop brightness centered around a catchy title-centric hook imparts feelings of new love — that lingers much longer than a one-night venture. “See You in the PM” embraces a more laid-back, acoustic-laden production, reflective of continued relationship growth where partners bare their souls. “I wanna drive your little car, park it right under the stars, I wanna see you in the dark,” Foster’s magnetic vocals stir. Another highlight arises in “Sleepy Baby,” where playful strings and an adoring lyrical sense pair with glistening synths for a lush gem of a production. Capped off by the dynamic “Never Forget,” which dazzles from hazy synth recollections to punchy pop charisma, Happy Sad Nothing is an enveloping, from-the-heart pop success from Grayson Foster.
