Stereo Stickman (If This Was My Last Breath)

Reviewed by: Rebecca Cullen

September 17, 2020

Massachusetts recording artist and performer Derek Picard breathes new life into the heartfelt ballad format with this beautifully emotive and powerful new single.

The melodically entrancing If This Was My Last Breath connects with ease from the very first few moments, leading with Derek’s softly raspy yet strong vocal, a dash of classic reverb, and a string and piano-led ambiance that work hard to create a natural, organic experience.

As the song progresses, the build-up and evolution is wonderful, seeing things brighten and bloom in the way that every great pop song tends to. The style and passion of the delivery, the multi-layered set-up, all leans towards influences like Peter Cetera or Bryan Adams. The lyrics come straight from the heart, feeling all at once deeply personal yet broadly accessible in their poetic description of love and a life well-lived.

At its core, this release speaks on the latter in a profound fashion – it inspires a sense of contentedness, of happiness to be where you are – satisfaction with the choices you’ve made, the people you’ve loved. Furthermore, this way with honest, pure vocal delivery, is a stand-out quality from all of Derek’s releases to date – spanning right back to 2018’s Sweet Surrender.

Strength of style and a naturally passionate connection performance-wise are always at the centre of his music, and this is a timeless quality – unaffected by trends or any surface level desire to meet industry expectation. The performance itself is beautiful, honest, accessible, and the completed release clearly indicative of a fine artist at the top of his game.

If This Was My Last Breath, written by Gordon Pogoda and Peter Roberts, was released on September 25th. Follow Derek Picard on Facebook & Instagram or visit his Website for more information.

Stereo Stickman (Sweet Surrender)

Reviewed by: Rebecca Cullen

June 20, 2018

“Derek Picard has written a quickly enjoyable song for his latest release. Sweet Surrender offers a lot in the way of that big band, jazz-funk, almost Christmas joy style of musicality, and it’s a memorable, undeniably warm track – loaded with good vibes, soul, and a dash of rock and roll.
At four and a half minutes long, this really feels like a much more substantial single than the majority of pop-influenced, independent releases of late. This means that you get a little longer to revel in the sound, the chord progression, the optimism – and a little longer in the world of music can feel like a big deal. The way the song has been crafted means that each section is well thought out and effective, leading confidently and rhythmically into the next in a smooth and natural manner. The verses offer space, a touch of musical swagger, nothing too heavy – those lyrics appear as short lines; Picard’s voice is where your focus is. Afterwards, the hook brings the full throttle vibrancy of the big-band sound – the sax, the choir of additional voices, the repetition of that central idea. The contrast throughout works well to give the song impact.
Derek Picard’s voice suits this sort of soundscape and songwriting beautifully, it feels like a genuine, heartfelt performance – it sounds like he sings for the sheer love of singing, and that he sings this particular song for the sheer love of a significant other. The authenticity runs deep and that makes it all the more enjoyable and believable to witness. You get a sense that a live show would reveal multiple layers of impressive musical colour and detail. From a songwriting perspective, as stated – this one connects pretty quickly. You’d likely recognise it and embrace that rhythm and that uplifting chord progression in an instant.
Find & follow Derek Picard on Facebook & Twitter. Visit his Website for more information.”

The Bandcamp Diaries

Reviewed by: Andrea Caccese

The Bandcamp Diaries

June 10, 2018

“His music is a fantastic and emotional combination of pop melodies and R&B aesthetics. His new track is really a fantastic example of Derek’s skills and songwriting. His voice is certainly one of the first things that you will notice. Derek has an honest and direct approach to his music, and he certainly knows how to create soaring melodies and great grooves. The lead guitars are amazing, with a lot of energy and taste. On the other hand, Derek’s approach is also focused on great vocal melodies, with lyrics that really add weight and depth to the track.
Ultimately, the song has a unique approach, which really highlights the artist’s ability to pursue a diverse creative vision.
Find out more about Derek Picard and do not miss out on the artist’s most recent releases, events, and activities at http://www.derek-picard.com”

Sound of Now | Music Blog

Reviewed by: Jack Wilson

Sound of Now

June 3, 2018

“In his latest single ‘Sweet Surrender’, the highly gifted and wonderful Derek Picard showcases to us just why he is the name to follow in the world of music with fun-driven vocals, authentic vibe and simply brilliant overall production that will keep with you for weeks and months to come. With this single released, we are sure to hear more great things in the months and weeks to come from this exciting artist known as, Derek Picard.”

Evolution Music Press

Derek Picard – Sweet Surrender

Reviewed by: Red Sweeny

Evolution Music Press

June 1, 2018

“A modern crooner playing on a traditional musical style gives us Derek Picard, with his newest single “Sweet Surrender”. A blend of classic 1970’s style pop love music, and contemporary rhythm and blues, Derek delivers a full spectrum of easy listening and romantic melodies which satisfy any listening mood. With the use of lead-guitar melodies and a horn section driving the harmonies, “Sweet Surrender” creates a dynamic of an intimate setting presented in a large concert venue. The performance of Derek Picard on this track has a live feel but mixed beautifully as a studio release. Derek’s singing style utilizes a high baritone, coupled with choice overtones staying masterfully within his register, he is able to deliver a powerful performance without straining his voice, and never straying from the key of the music.
A love song presented as a contrast to all the things that move the singer, Derek Picard uses rich lyricism to soothe and entice a reaction out of his listener. “You’re like the sunshine, on a cloudy day, making the rain go away”. By using metaphor and imagery Derek declares how his heart makes him surrender to his love, “Sweet Surrender, Right before my eyes. Sweet Surrender, I’ll tell you why. I love the little things you do, making me fall head over heels for you, you’re my, Sweet Surrender.” This professional and mature offering by Derek Picard is well met in today’s musical climate. Offering hope and love as a release, “Sweet Surrender” should find its way into any adult contemporary radio playlist.”