Whispers of Longing and Regret | What You Heard | Sonder


"What You Heard" by Sonder is an impactful song capturing many listeners' attention due to its emotional depth and outstanding lyrical mastery. It stands as a testament to the group's powerful craftsmanship, by forming intense connections with their audience through music.
Sonder, a music group composed of singer Brent Faiyez and producers Atu and Dpat, is known for manufacturing soothing vibes that induce emotional contemplation in listeners. Their captivating song, "What You Heard," is the perfect embodiment of their creative prowess.
The song was released in 2018, as a part of the group's popular EP titled "Into". The track quickly captured attention with its candid and deeply personal narrative. The group specializes in exploring and expressing emotions that many find difficult to articulate, and "What You Heard" is a prime example of this ability.
"What You Heard" examines the complexities of modern relationships, featuring a protagonist vacillating between pride, regret and the lingering desire for reconciliation. Through the song, Brent Faiyaz delivers a lyrical narrative of a deeply intimate conversation with a former paramour. This personal narrative, underscored by the masterful ambiance created by Atu and Dpat, resonates profoundly with individuals who have experienced the emotional roller-coaster intrinsic to romantic relationships.
The recurrent verse, "What if I told you that I miss you, would you say you miss me too? And what if I told you that I need you, would you say you need me too?", exemplifies the protagonist's emotional conflict. The poignant lyrics reveal longing, heartache, and the universal desire for reciprocated feelings – themes that connect deeply with listeners.
Delving into the musical composition, Sonder's aesthetic shines brightly. Their signature style of combining a soulful R&B core with surreal synths creates an emotional soundscape that complements the introspective lyrics. The mellow beats, coupled with Faiyaz's soulful and emotive vocals, meld together to form a soundscape that implores the listener to introspect and empathize with the song's narrative.
In conclusion, "What You Heard" by Sonder is more than just a song; it is an exploration of raw human emotions and experiences. It touches on themes of unrequited love, longingness, and regret, making it highly relatable for many listeners. The group's capability to delve deep into the human psyche through their music marks their creative brilliance, making "What You Heard" a song that perfectly represents Sonder's unique sound and storytelling ability.
