Wit and deep thoughts meticulously permeate each track from American-born, Iceland-citizen John Grant. Known for his knack of truth-telling in his art, the artist doesn’t shy away from shining a light on his personal experiences such as grappling with his sexual orientation, substance addiction, severe forms of anxiety, and his HIV-positive status. The frank and introspective nature of his songs attracts those who approach his exploration of self with respect and curiosity. Noted for his unique style, Grant spaces his creativity towards nothing less than the heavens. In his latest solo project, his sixth to date, he continues in this vein, combining diverse sounds with two critical themes, namely, how childhood afflictions plays a role in adult responses, and the political discontent that is prevailing in the contemporary United States.
The title of the album is poignant, Grant explains, outlining how false information can skew perception and generate distrust. He doesn’t mince his words when he criticises the US Republican Party for their perceived evaporated tolerance that seemed to have been cultivated over the decades. He is also forthright when discussing parenthood issues. Touching upon this latter topic, three related tracks (Father, Mother and Son, Daddy) serve as a bridge to convey Grant’s intended message. In the track “Father”, his sentiments surface as he croons to an electro-pop tune about his personal disappointments in not living up to expectations. The focus shifts on the heartfelt track “Mother and Son” to cover feelings of embarrassment and remorse. Grant’s music always keeps monotony away by offering unique, tradition-based musical thoughts.
However, the album also presents genre diversity in its different tracks. Songs like “All that School for Nothing” and “It’s a Bitch” bring on the funk while “Meek AF” introduces a tight rhythm with an energising rap bit. The eerily peaceful pop tune, “The Child Catcher” contrasts with “Daddy”, the third and final song about parenthood, which transports the listener to a melancholic journey through the past accompanied by synthesizer resonances. In his passionate endeavor to channel politics and self through his art, one might opine that “The Art of the Lie” is over transparent and critical, but Grant cushions the intensity with compassion and amicability, delivering his most commendable work since his 2010 introduction to the music world.