Sam Ryder – Heartland
Known for his powerhouse vocals and Eurovision breakthrough, Essex’s very own Sam Ryder returns as an independent artist with his sophomore record Heartland. Ryder has evolved greatly since Space Man, which won the UK second place at Eurovision 2022. On Heartland, Ryder dives into deeply personal territory as he looks back on a toxic romance and his emotional resilience throughout it all. Here, he shows the world he is much more than what he presented on Eurovision, or even on his debut: Heartland is emotionally raw, sonically diverse and intentionally crafted, proving that the singer-songwriter is committed to his art and here to stay.
Olympic ‘89 sets the tone of the record, immediately signalling that this is not just another pop-rock tune. The production blends eclectic drums, layered bass and shimmering electronic elements, transporting the listener into Ryder’s mind. The Feeling Never Went Away follows, and the album’s theme is set into stone as Ryder expands on a toxic past relationship that still plagues his mind, complete with a sticky pre-chorus that builds into a full-blown earworm. Its climb mimics the emotional spirals of a love that is hard to let go, which is a musical motif that never wavers throughout the project.
Ryder continues to discuss these themes and how he is attempting to cope confidently. When Armour plays out, however, there is a grand shift in perspective when the artist trades maximalist production for acoustics. A steel guitar and steady reverb outline the song and allow for the singer’s famed vocals to take control, as if Ryder’s main goal is to ensure listeners are dialled in to each word he says. With this, Armour and its piano-based successor, Burn It Down, show more vulnerability, especially considering how the singer highlights how he is stuck in the twisted headspace of this jarring relationship. Armour is Ryder advising listeners not to let past troubles stop them from experiencing life to its fullest, whereas Burn It Down displays the dichotomy between Ryder’s self-realisation and his actions. The transition becomes undeniable, however, with Better Man.
Better Man may return to heavier sounds with its bluesy inspiration, but the message is more optimistic as the singer reflects on his personal growth through a healthier relationship. The post-chorus and bridge enforce the vintage atmosphere and allow Ryder’s new outlook on love to shine.
Eyes on You is the clear climax despite its calm state, and it pulls from every corner of Heartland with an excellent blend of acoustic guitars, steel strings, groovy drums and echoing vocals that tie the entire narrative together. Ryder takes time to reflect on each story within the record, and there is a sense of closure as he sings it with strength. Eyes on You is a perfect example of just how much Ryder has grown as an artist, both with his lyricism and musicality.
Overall, Sam Ryder leans into imperfection on Heartland: his intentionally strained vocals, raw lyrics and drastic style changes allow him to tell a fully human story. The sonic variety never feels forced as it mirrors his emotional journey, from chaos to calm and from heartbreak to healing. Heartland is a project that does not just tell a story of personal growth, but it also showcases how Ryder is finding himself as an artist. Eyes on You may not provide a full resolution, but it surely will have listeners excited to see what the singer does next.
Taryn Crowley
Image: Jack Robinson
Heartland is released on 17th October 2025. For further information or to order the album, visit Sam Ryder’s website here.
Watch the video for Better Man here:
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