Indonesian singer-songwriter Morad has been releasing a string of uniquely diverse singles since 2019. His blues-infused single “How” was nominated for Best Alternative Performance at the 2021 Indonesian Music Awards. The following year, his hugely popular, languid, soulful single “If Tomorrow I'm Losing You” racked up over 1 million streams on Spotify, a well-received interview with NME and the release of his debut studio album, “About A Woman.”
“I Lost My Smile Somewhere” is another Morad speciality. This latest single shares a common summer release with one of the greatest troubadours of all time. The first trailer for the Bob Dylan biopic “A Complete Unknown” was released this week, sparking a worldwide discussion about the historical impact of folk and country on modern music. When you think of the next generation of musicians inspired by musicians like Dylan, look no further than Morad. Citing Nick Drake, Leonard Cohen, Neil Young and Paolo Nutini as influences, Morad showcases his folk music side with a dash of sentimental pop lyrics.
A young and multitalented artist, Morad tries new styles and directions, using the warm tones and laid back vocals of Americana on “I Lost My Smile Somewhere.” Set in tempo by the constant thumping of a tambourine, Morad's intimate vocals are accompanied by hypnotic rhythm guitar and layers of strings, piano, percussion and a cathartic plea from Morad's backing vocals. We are stirred with him until a divine sounding organ leads us to a tranquil finale about 30 seconds before the end of this highly affecting track.
If you haven't heard his previous minimalist acoustic guitar single “Heartless Man,” you'll find this to be another labor of love that leans squarely into country-style heartache.
I Lost My Smile Somewhere is available now on all major streaming platforms.