Alexander Stewart’s highly anticipated debut album, Bleeding Heart, which was released on May 10, 2024, via FAE, is a striking showcase of raw emotion and poignant storytelling from the rising Canadian artist. Known for his ability to turn heartache into melody, Stewart’s first full-length project explores the intricacies of love, loss, and self-discovery with an emotional depth that resonates universally with listeners and fans alike.
Alexander's debut album opens with the powerful track, "said so," a contemplative tune featuring gentle instrumentation, but as the song grows, the instrumentation builds, and at the forefront puts focus on Stewart’s signature velvety, commanding vocals. It sets a reflective tone, hinting at the vulnerability that defines the record as a whole.
"day i die"Â quickly raises the emotional stakes with its haunting melodies and the gripping message in its lyrics, portraying the devastating aftermath of heartbreak.
"broken by you" is one of the album’s standout tracks. With its soaring chorus and cinematic production, it encapsulates the pain of loving someone who doesn’t love you back. In contrast, "blame's on me" takes an even more introspective approach, offering a gut-wrenching confession of guilt that feels almost too personal to share.
The mid-album sequence, including the tracks, "all these years" and "how dare you," dives into themes of nostalgia, regret, and betrayal. Stewart’s lyrical maturity shines in "all these years," where he reflects on a relationship that once felt eternal. Meanwhile, "how dare you" is a fiery pop rock anthem that mixes vulnerability with defiance, driven by a powerful vocal performance.
"reflection" serves as a pivotal moment in the album, showcasing Stewart’s knack for being immensely introspective. The stripped-down piano production highlights the rawness of his lyrics and his voice, leaving listeners feeling exposed alongside him. This track transitions beautifully into "i wish you cheated," an unexpectedly high-powered and cathartic track about longing for an easier reason to let go.
The album’s latter half continues to impress. "strangers" delivers a bittersweet farewell to a love turned distant, while "easier said than done" captures the struggle of moving on with heartfelt precision. "if you only knew" feels like a letter, or a text, that was never sent, its tender instrumentation complementing lyrics that ache with unspoken truths.
The closing track, "proud of me," is a poignant end to the journey Stewart tells across the album's twelve tracks. It’s yet another reflective ballad, this time about self-worth and acceptance, serving as a reminder that growth often comes through the pain life can deal us.
Bleeding Heart feels deeply cohesive, thanks in part to its emotionally driven narrative and polished production. The album balances piano ballads, soaring anthems, and pop-leaning tracks, offering something for every listener while maintaining its core identity. Stewart’s vocal performance is nothing short of remarkable, effortlessly conveying vulnerability and strength.
Alexander Stewart’s Bleeding Heart is a masterful debut that cements him as a rising star in the pop scene. Its heartfelt lyrics, stunning vocals, and emotionally charged melodies create a listening experience that feels both intimate and universal. For anyone who’s ever nursed a broken heart or searched for closure, Bleeding Heart is an album that is sure to echo in your soul long after the music stops.