Serving Emotion and Intimacy: A Deep Dive into Troye Sivan’s ‘Something to Give Each Other’

Troye Sivan Grapples With Agony and Ecstasy on ‘Something to Give Each Other’: Album Review

Introduction

Troye Sivan, the Australian singer-songwriter, has come a long way since his nervous coming-out video on YouTube a decade ago. With his latest album, “Something to Give Each Other,” Sivan presents a mature and introspective body of work that explores the themes of agony, ecstasy, and human connection. The album reflects Sivan’s growth as a pop singer with a unique perspective on intimacy and relationships.

A Bacchanalian Celebration

Sivan’s previous singles, like “Rush” and “Got Me Started,” hinted at a euphoric and celebratory tone that suggested the album would focus on queer euphoria and anonymous connections. While these songs were well-received, they turned out to be slight red herrings for the overall theme of “Something to Give Each Other.” The album, consisting of 10 tracks, delves deeper into the complexities of human emotions and the lasting impact of relationships.

The Duality of Human Connection

“Someting to Give Each Other” explores the duality of human connection, touching on both the fleeting nature of relationships and the pain of letting go. Sivan speaks frankly about sex and relationships, embracing vulnerability and introspection throughout the album. The track “Honey” captures the thrill of immediate gratification and passive indulgence, while simultaneously acknowledging the emotional comedown often experienced the morning after. This juxtaposition of emotions is a familiar aspect of the gay experience, and Sivan embraces it with authenticity and tenderness.

A Forthright Exploration of Intimacy

One of the album’s standout qualities is Sivan’s ability to sing honestly about sex and relationships. He explores the complicated emotions that arise from a breakup, as shown in the track “Can’t Go Back, Baby.” Sivan balances nostalgia with the pain of losing someone, confessing, “And it breaks my heart to say I can’t wait to live without you.” This sentiment captures the struggle of holding onto the past while trying to move forward.

A Personal and Conversational Approach

Throughout “Something to Give Each Other,” Sivan’s vocal style remains measured and understated. This deliberate choice allows the album to feel conversational, as if Sivan is sharing his experiences directly with the listener. His restrained approach may not offer the flash and bombast typically expected in pop music, but it adds to the album’s authenticity and enhances its overall intimacy.

Conclusion

Troye Sivan’s “Something to Give Each Other” showcases his growth as both an artist and an individual. The album delves into the complexities of human emotions and relationships, capturing the agony and ecstasy that come with intimate connections. Sivan’s ability to sing frankly about sex and relationships sets him apart as an artist unafraid to explore the depths of his own experiences. “Something to Give Each Other” is a snapshot of an artist on a journey of self-discovery, still coming to terms with his positioning as an entertainer while pushing boundaries and connecting with his audience.

Keywords: Emotion, Troye Sivan, Something to Give Each Other, music, intimacy.