Looks like touring with Queen has finally rubbed off on Adam Lambert. “New Eyes” — the second taste of the upcoming Velvet following “Feel Something” in February — is a classic rock affair at its core, and the furthest the singer has ever strayed from a contemporary pop sound. Backed by funk-influenced electric bass and and drum programming, the track abandons the synths of Lambert’s prior productions for more rugged and heavy-hitting sonics. It’s a welcomed genre hop, and certainly one the singer is more than comfortable in exploring after the past eight years of playing Freddie Mercury.
The groove of the song is felt immediately, as the verse begins on a melancholy “rainy night.” Detailing the lackluster of life that has consumed him, Lambert feels awakened by the optimism of his subject; through their rose-colored glasses, the singer sees “virgin light blue skies” and an excitement he had previously lost. Moving through the song, he comments on the chemistry he has with this person, feeling “addicted to the sweet, sleepy haze” that comes with budding romance and/or friendship. After an extended instrumental break, the singer allows his vocal chords their moment in the spotlight on the final chorus, giving “New Eyes” that signature Lambert flair fans will go mad over.
Rating: 4/5