Alec Benjamin - Demons: Masterful Storytelling

With each angst-filled song as a microcosmic chapter of his life, Alec Benjamin’s mature, secure lyricism equips an idiosyncratic narrative style in which he perfectly encapsulates the loss of innocence that accompanies the birth into adulthood. A fierce rebel of the anti-climactic pop-drop trend of the late 2010s, Benjamin’s debut album, aptly named ‘Narrated for You’ reveals intelligent and thoughtful songwriting that balances unusual, intense detail with easily relatable scenarios. Despite not having the strongest of voices, his gift for storytelling is a true captivator for listeners. Even at his worst, Benjamin is a masterful storyteller.

Moving swiftly into 2020 with an equally conversational vibe is ‘Demons’, Benjamin’s latest single. Tackling mental health as its subject matter, Benjamin’s soft and delicate voice articulates grievances that circulate in his mind; grievances that ‘nobody can see…nobody but me’. Throughout the song, Benjamin considers the physically overwhelming nature of his inner thoughts and contemplates various ways to alleviate his struggle. Recurring frequently throughout is a reference to a saving grace who gives Benjamin a reason to continue battling, although it is unclear whether this a religious saviour, a romantic interest, or even a friend or family member.

In light of the rather serious subject matter, the nature of the music seems unaffected, opening up into a rather serene, peaceful and sensitive tone occupied by a gentle guitar and quiet, atmospheric harmonies. Massively juxtaposing with the lyricism’s turbulent topic and the title’s allusion to demonic entities, the lightness of the music creates a truly beautiful and comforting sound with the continuous flow of lyric suggesting a welcome openness to discuss matters of mental health.

Benjamin is an established and intelligent lyricist whose eloquent narration causes him to follow in the footsteps of legendary songwriters like Bob Dylan and Taylor Swift.