Sam Fender People Watching - Album Review

The third studio album from the North Shields musician is nothing short of a lyrically beautiful collection of storytelling tracks.

These new releases have been well received, as was his last album release of ‘Seventeen Going Under’ (2021). Straight from the first title single - People Watching, the new songs have gone down a storm.

Sam Fender headlining Tramlines - Image by Natasha Judge

Track Wild Long Lie is pure, classic Fender. Having heard this live in Manchester, it will likely be a crowd favourite, as audiences were already swaying singing along to the chorus. The melody, and guitar and saxophone solos, build a journey throughout the track, and further emphasise the lyrical desire to leave the known.

Arms Length, was the third song released, and is a standout from the album. Again, this was played live during his UK tour leg at the end of 2024, and fans were eagerly awaiting its official release.  The track takes you into the inner thoughts of somebody with a turmoil of emotions. It implies somebody is ‘holding out hope’, whilst also being fearful of letting someone in. It echoes this within the lyrics “selfish and I’m lonely” juxtaposing with wanting “some company” - further demonstrating avoidance.

Again, later in the album  - Rein Me In, explores similar themes of looking back on what once was through memories, and not wanting to be brought back in. It highlights the recognition of personal mistakes being factors that have caused break downs in relationships. This again is another upbeat track, paired with a beautiful saxophone solo.

Crumbling Empire is another storytelling classic from Sam Fender, his lyricism shines throughout this track. The tune highlight his family, people he has known, his hometown of Newcastle, and its treatment over the years - alluding to government and state failures. His internal monologue depicts wondering what would be become of him, had he not made it as a successful musician.

“I don’t wear the shoes I used to walk in, but I can’t help thinking where they would take me”

A Little Bit Closer is a ballad questioning faith, solidified in the bridge of “What is God?”. This song features backing vocals from new edition to the band - Brooke Bentham, an old friend of Fender, who provides many a harmony both throughout this album, and when performing live.

TV Dinner largely critiques the treatment of artists during the music industry, with mentions of the late Amy Winehouse. This track powerfully demonstrates the toll of ‘making it’ and the unrealistic expectations and the impact this has on artists as a result. Thai song is greatly needed as a reminder and a call for change within the industry, and is shown especially through the harrowing outro.

Sam Fender and band performing at the Co-Op Arena, Manchester - Image by Natasha Judge

Something Heavy is an excellent track which explores mental health, navigating feelings of depression, and wanting to be there for those in need of help.

Another standout is Chin Up, which musically as well as lyrically, illustrates the strength it takes to continue to survive and persist, even when it feels near impossible to do so. Arguably this track could have easily been a single, and wouldn’t be surprising if it becomes one in the near future.

The album ends on an emotionally poignant track about loss and mourning. Fender discussed how he wrote song - Remember My Name, from the perspective of his Grandad. The song beautifully honours his grandparents, and is one that I am certain many will hold close to their heart, myself included.

The album is nothing short of superb, numerous times the upbeat songs juxtapose with the themes of the tracks, alongside some excellent saxophone accents.

For big fans of fender, the words ‘People Watching’ likely have two main resonation points now - this superb new album, and memories of Sam’s old Instagram stories narrating passers by from café windows.

This won’t be the last you see of Fender as he is the ambassador for Record Store Day this year, with a limited pressing of Me and the Dog to be released on the day in April.

Also, the Geordie singer songwriter is up for best Rock/Alt at the BRITs 2025 next month on March 1. It is set to be a memorable evening, as Sam and band will be performing on the music awards night - hopefully after a win!

You can catch Sam Fender playing these new tracks at his summer UK tour, stopping in London, and at hometown shows at St James Park, as well as a date at Wythenshawe Park in Manchester.

For more information on tour dates, visit his site here.