Longtime author & songwriter Bill Barlow dips into a cryptic, electro-pop statement piece ‘When He Speaks’.

This feels like a wake-up call for those in the know. A not-so-subtle, energetic jab at the people in power and those in the public spotlight constantly, and how everything they say, communicate or express seems to be twisted, misinterpreted, inauthentic or just plain ineffective.

This track’s dynamic energy is a surprising shift from Barlow’s mellower earlier works. ‘When He Speaks’ is from his latest, comprehensive 18-track album release, ‘The Bill Barlow Project’, which sees him dial up the intensity a few notches and deliver clever lyricism with punchy grooves.

Opening with thumping beats and whimsical, restless synth layers, the track creates an intriguing space from which Barlow’s sharp observations begin to flow. He’s opted for AI vocals, young and determined, that sound like they mean business.

Barlow’s lyrics are a refreshing balance of wit, sarcasm, and humor.

“There had been too many leaks / They knew all the words before he gave the speech.”

These opening lines are relatable for anyone who’s been following the absurd mainstream media ecosystem. The way ‘information’ is twisted and rehashed to suit particular interests, plus the invasion of the digital media era, can make it very difficult to ascertain just who is saying what. And if that is actually true or not. This creates a negative spiraling effect in the minds of people, where they’ve lost all sense of trust and confidence in the words of public figures and what they hear from the media.

The track flows at a catchy tempo; short bursts of dub-infused breakdowns between the verses make it a fun, thought-provoking listen.

For listeners of edgy, brave, message-driven music, check this out. Barlow is spitting facts for an ever-awakening generation.

Stream ‘Bill Barlow – When He Speaks’ on Spotify here: