British singer-songwriter George Ezra returns with “Saviour,” the final advance single from his highly-anticipated sophomore album, ‘Staying at Tamara’s.’ He’s assisted by First Aid Kit.

“Being your own saviour, saviour / Is it saving you?” George Ezra is back! In 2015, the deep, robust-voiced singer-songwriter shined on his debut album, Wanted on Voyage. That effort included gems including ‘ace-in-the-hole’ “Budapest,” “Cassy O’,” and “Listen to the Man.” In advance of his highly-anticipated sophomore album, Staying at Tamara’s (March 23, 2018), Ezra has released five singles: “Don’t Matter Now”, “Paradise”, “Pretty Shining People”, “Hold My Girl”, and “Saviour.” On “Saviour,” Ezra is assisted by First Aid Kit.

Naturally, given its title, “Saviour” has its share of religious references.  The aforementioned lyric, which commences the first verse, plays on the notion of faith and lack thereof.  While there’s a religious undertone, “Saviour” centers more on a romantic relationship as opposed to one with God or some other deity.  The chorus confirms this relationship, again playing into religion brilliantly, with the suggestion that one partner can only offer so much, and it’s not sufficient.

“All of me is all for you
And what I’ve got to give is not enough
It’s a dark night
All of me is all for you
And what I’ve got to give is not enough
It’s a dark night.”

Verse two references both the devil and Christ, but the reference to Christ is more ‘in vain’ as opposed to laudatory. Nonetheless, its ranks among the most brilliant lyrics from the song.

“I saw the devil dance for you

Crying out, Christ you’re bad.”

Final Thoughts

So much of the analysis focuses on the lyricism of “Saviour” – it’s undeniably impressive.  But so are those signature, robust vocals by George Ezra, as well as superb backing vocals by First Aid Kit.  The minor-key production is also a huge selling-point, featuring a rhythmic, folk-/roots-rock-esque sound.  A Mouthful for sure. All in all, Ezra delivers another gem  with “Saviour,” giving Staying at Tamara’s another winner.  Early indications suggest an excellent sophomore album.

George Ezra • Staying at Tamara’s • Columbia • Release: 3.23.18

Writer: George Ezra & Joel Pott | Producer: Cam Blackwood 

Photo Credit: Columbia