Zachary Crawford - Hello Stranger (2022)

Zachary Crawford is an Irish singer songwriter with a distinctly retro sound. He draws inspiration from the soft rock sounds of the late 70s/early 80s and records with a mix of vintage analogue instruments and modern production techniques. A strong emphasis on cryptic, thought-provoking lyrics adds an interesting contrast to the light, catchy melodies.

“Hello Stranger” is Zachary Crawford’s debut album. It was recorded over the course of a year jointly in his home studio and Dutch producer Phil Martin's studio in Dordrecht. The opening lines on “Hello Stranger” set the tone: "Who do you see, dreamer or dream?"

Zachary Crawford explains in his own words: “The dream-like songs deal with escape; mental health; time travel; relationships; childhood; conspiracy theories, and each give an insight into the 'dreamer', resulting in a deeply personal album. Often our biggest battles are with our mind. This album is about fighting those battles. And winning. Sometimes. And coping with the times we don't win. And deciding when it's best to listen to your mind and when to ignore it.”