8/10

There are albums that aim to entertain, and then there are those that carry a weight far beyond sound. And with 'Strings Attached (Deluxe)', Greg Gould delivers an expansive, emotionally charged body of work that feels driven by necessity as much as artistry.

At the heart of the record lies 'No More', a centrepiece that refuses to be ignored. Featuring Kate DeAraugo, Adam Noviello and Kween Kong, the track carries a collective intensity that amplifies its message. Vocally, it’s immense, but it’s the intention behind it that gives the song its true gravity. This is expression rooted in real-world pain, delivered with clarity and conviction.

Across the wider album, the artist builds on that emotional foundation with a sweeping, orchestral palette. The arrangements are rich and cinematic, guided by live instrumentation that gives the record a sense of scale without losing its core sincerity. Strings rise and fall like emotional currents, framing each performance with a sense of drama that never feels excessive.

What stands out most is the collaborative spirit running through the project. Appearances from artists like Shoshana Bean, Morissette and Tania Doko bring a breadth of perspective that widens the album’s emotional scope. Each voice adds something distinct, yet everything remains anchored by his own commanding, expressive, and unwavering vocals.

But rather than simply revisiting past material, 'Strings Attached (Deluxe)' is the continuation of an artist returning to his work with new understanding, allowing it to expand and deepen. The additional material feels essential to its directio, as though these songs were always meant to grow into this larger form.

In a time where music can often feel detached from the realities it exists within, 'Strings Attached (Deluxe)' stands apart. It’s about making sure something is said, and more importantly, making sure it matters.