Sam Gelston’s See Through Now is the kind of album that reveals itself gradually. At first listen, its minimalistic production and unfiltered performances can feel almost confrontational in a musical landscape that is obsessed with perfection. Yet the deeper you sink into these nine songs, the more apparent it becomes that every crack in the foundation serves a purpose.
Rather than relying on grand statements or elaborate arrangements, Gelston builds his world through small moments. A wavering vocal line can suddenly open into something profound. The songs often feel conversational, as though they’re being discovered in real time rather than carefully constructed for an audience.
What makes See Through Now particularly compelling is its willingness to sit with contradiction. Tracks move between cynicism and hopefulness without ever fully settling into either camp. The opening song, “I’m Coming to LA to Kill You,” immediately establishes this balancing act, pairing absurd humor with genuine affection and longing.
Throughout the album, Gelston demonstrates a gift for finding significance in everyday experiences. Whether examining fractured relationships or personal insecurities, he approaches each subject with curiosity rather than certainty. There are no easy answers here, only observations that feel increasingly relatable as the record unfolds.
The songwriting remains the album’s greatest strength. Even when arrangements are sparse, the melodies linger and the lyrics invite repeated listening. Songs like “Somethings Last a While” and “IDKY” showcase an artist capable of transforming familiar emotions into something uniquely his own.
By the time See Through Now reaches its final moments, it feels less like a collection of songs and more like a journal left open on a table. Honest, flawed and deeply human, it is an album that rewards listeners willing to embrace its imperfections.
