After spoiling us on “Ruin,” Canadian teen singer/songwriter Shawn Mendes comes back down to earth to deliver intimate single, “Three Empty Words.”

Shawn Mendes spoiled us with “Ruin.” Bluesy, gritty, and somewhat out of character, Mendes showed a different side of himself.  We all took the bait – we were like “a dog after a bone.” On his most recent pre-release single from September sophomore album Illumination, Mendes scales things down.  “Three Empty Words” is stripped – more intimate.

“Three Empty Words” is quicker in tempo compared to “Ruin,” a prudent move. His vocals are clear and well produced.  The production – a combination of guitar and voice mostly – isn’t flashy, but pure, simple, and effective. A selling point is how the guitar carries the rhythm.  The chorus features lush sounds.  The addition of backing vocals and more instrumentation (strings) is beautiful and quite musical.  To reiterate, the M.O. of “Three Empty Words” is simplicity and radiance.

Final Thoughts

Ultimately, “Three Empty Words” is a beautiful track, set in a very intimate setting. A stark contrast to the bluesy, more emotional “Ruin,” it continues to show Mendes’ vast musical capabilities. “Three Empty Words” isn’t the most exciting record, but pleasant and sound by all means.

Shawn Mendes • Illumination • Island • Release: 9.23.16

Photo Credit: Island