By Chloe Morris
Photo Credit: Insanity Records
Bursting with a variety of sounds, Tom Grennan’s new album Everywhere I Went, Led Me to Where I Didn’t Want to Be is a beautiful exploration of self-belief and confidence.
The fifteen-track record marks Grennan’s fourth studio album, and it seriously doesn’t disappoint – he’s delivering some of his best work yet.
Packed full of energy and sonically diverse, the LP primarily leans into pop while blending touches of jazz, disco, and rock, in standout tracks like Certified, Lonely Dancer, and Drama Queen. The result is a roller-coaster of emotions, with Grennan opening up about his “fight with a side of me I have a lot of trouble with. It’s still a daily battle but I’ve learned how to fight all these demons now.”
The juxtaposition throughout the album is crafted with great care. Upon first listen, the overall tone feels upbeat, full of tracks you can sing along and dance to. But digging deeper into the lyricism reveals the more intimate, vulnerable story Grennan is trying to tell.
My personal favourite is Somewhere Only We Go, which reflects on how people grow apart, change, and evolve, yet the memories always remain. With a soaring guitar riff and steady drums driving it, the track provides the perfect backdrop for Grennan’s distinctive powerhouse vocals. His voice elevates the narrative so strongly that it feels like the song could have been lifted straight from a film soundtrack.
Another standout of the album is its intricate layering. On the LP, Grennan worked with renowned songwriter and producer Justin Tranter, ensuring that every track offers new instrumental or vocal flourishes – whether a trumpet, piano, or harmony – that add depth and dimension. This production style surrounds the listener, immersing them fully in Grennan’s world.
By track twelve, Cinnamon, Grennan softens his delivery, contrasting the big, high-energy tracks that dominate the first half of the album. This shift creates a warmer, more intimate atmosphere.
Equally worth mentioning is I Won’t Miss a Thing – a stunning piano ballad about the circle of life and the idea that loved ones remain with us in some form even after death. Stripped back to just piano and Grennan’s raw vocals, it stands as one of the most moving songs on the record. It’s the kind of track that makes you want to pause and reflect.
To summarise, Everywhere I Went, Led Me to Where I Didn’t Want to Be is a strong addition to Grennan’s discography. His raspy, almost grungy voice consistently complements the instrumentals, carrying both power and vulnerability. The album presents two distinct layers: on the surface, it’s a collection of infectious, feel-good tracks. But beneath, it’s an honest portrayal of struggle, resilience, and growth. This duality makes it not only engaging on first listen but also deeply rewarding upon reflection. This album is both a celebration and a confession. It’s Grennan at his most compelling.
Unless otherwise stated, Photography & Text Copyright 2025 © Chloe Morris/ADRENALINE Magazine.
Casey Brockbank 
Laura Amelia Bujauskaite