“Bittersweet” premieres on Popdust today.
“Bittersweet” is the new single from Carter Reeves, who, prior to going solo with his Fresh Fruit EP, was half of Aer, the popular alt hip-hop duo. Reeves decided it was time for something different and took off on his own. Success followed him, as Fresh Fruit piled up more than 1 million streams, furnished two hit singles, Grip” and “Aquarium,” and slotted Reeves into Billboard’s Hot 100 Fest.
Reeves grew up in Massachusetts, singing along to his parents’ Hall & Oates and Fleetwood Mac records. His parents supported his musical penchant, getting him piano lessons. Reeves quit shortly after beginning. As soon as his parents put forward the idea of the school chorus, Reeves started a band that ultimately steered him to Aer.
Reeves explains the inspiration for the single, saying, “I wrote “Bittersweet” a few days after leaving a relationship. The reason the song is called “Bittersweet” is due to the emotions behind my decision to end the relationship. I ended the relationship because I needed to regain my personal time and to focus selfishly and undividedly on myself.It was really sad for me to end something that brought me so much joy, but ultimately it was the best decision for myself.”
“Bittersweet” opens with skiffing guitars on a pop-flavored tune with aromas of hip-hop and reggaeton. Surfacing colors from the synths infuse the tune with sleek luminous shades of color, as the syncopated rhythm gives the song an infectious beat.
Reeves’ voice, smooth and persuasive, invests the lyrics with stylish sophistication and an ultra-melodic feel. The shimmering vocal harmonies secure the song’s radiant depth, as well as adding coruscating hues. I love the injection and emphasis of “you,” adding a tight harmonic highlight.
“Bittersweet” is yummy, full of alluring harmonics, a captivating beat, and Carter Reeves’ polished tenor.
Randy Radic is a Left Coast author and writer. Author of numerous true crime books written under the pen-name of John Lee Brook. Former music contributor at Huff Post.
Related Articles Around the Web
