Pio Hartnett is a songwriter and producer from Galway, Ireland. With “Roses”, he displays a strong technical display for songwriting as well as a talent for sense of self. There is no denying his control of both folk and pop sensibilities. Pio says that he used to write songs about big things and now he’s focusing on crafting them based on, “small, tiny things.” With “Roses” he achieves just that.
“Roses” is a beautiful composition with string layers backing tasteful acoustic guitars. The levity in which the instruments perform allow Pio to deliver his vocals with sincerity. The songwriting is very creative, never feeling repetitive as the verses and bridges vary with new elements and sweet chord changes.
The song really excels with the dynamic build in its chorus where a pretty melody harmonic blend of layered strings switch from legato to staccato, while the choral effect of Pio’s voice shines in the mix. There is a catharsis to “Roses” that delivers both hope and melancholy at the same time. Pio truly sounds like a professional artist and displays a keen understanding in how to let a song excel at its different stages.
Lyrically, the tune is ambiguous but it can be interpreted as a self-examination on the readiness for love. Pio meditates on the second guessing and hesitancy of knowing whether it truly feels right. Can you smell the roses in your current situation?
The mix is very professionally done as well with the entire spectrum feeling glued together, no frequencies masking each other out. Perhaps that’s a great way to describe “Roses”; a balanced piece of art, easily digested and nourishing at the same time.
If “Roses” is any indication of what Pio has moving forward, we can’t wait to hear what’s next.
Written by Jon Kagan
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