Tag: Xander Holmes

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

Xander Holmes Releases “Something Real”

17-year-old Xander Holmes caught my attention earlier in the year with the release of his EP Ocean. Now the Brisbane singer-songwriter is ushering in a new chapter with the release of “Something Real.”

It picks up where Ocean left off, a strikingly mature song that explores life and what happens when things don’t work out as planned. I just love Xander’s voice and the originality he’s bringing to his music. We don’t often see such a unique take at such a tender age. With every release from this young talent, I’m more impressed.

“The song is about discovering or getting into something when it is still new, fresh and exciting. Things like relationships, friendships, new opportunities and projects. That really freeing feeling of Something New,” Xander explained.

With “Something Real” Xander proves the EP was no fluke. This young man is the real deal.

Image used with permission from Minor Major

Posted on by Lauren Katulka

“Ocean” – Xander Holmes

He hasn’t even graduated from high school yet, but already Brisbane teen Xander Holmes is creating the kind of songs that musicians many years his senior would be proud of. His debut EP Ocean is an epic release made up of five tracks set to excite fans of artists like Matt Corby and Jeff Buckley.

Opening song and title track “Ocean” is an anthemic song that builds to a stirring crescendo. “My Will” and “Islands” are two of the strongest songs on the recording, in my opinion, with Xander’s dreamy vocals showing they’re up to the task, whether they’re contrasting with the urgent wailings of an electric guitar or keeping time with a driving drum beat. “Tidal” is an exquisite, atmospheric instrumental. A real master stroke. The closing track “Let There Be Light” is perhaps the EP’s most accessible song, a romantic piano ballad that really speaks to the heart. It’s much more stripped back than the other songs, yet for a track that speaks of love the way this one does I think the gentler touch works.

I love Xander’s voice and the way he’s built such beautiful soundscapes that complement it perfectly. Ocean is an accomplished EP that gives listeners a glimpse at a potential superstar of the future. It’s available now on a range of digital channels including iTunes, Google Play, and Spotify.