Molly Hammar : Shortcuts (I Can’t Wait) Review

Swedish based vocalist and songwriter Molly Hammar is back with a single called, “Shortcuts (I Can’t Wait).” Hammar grew up in a family of jazz music, with both her parents still touring as freelance jazz musicians. The importance of rhythm has been instilled in Hammar and it brings her singing to life. With emo-pop and contemporary R&B influences, “Shortcuts (I can’t Wait)” was co-written with Professor P (Avicii, Daniel Adams-Ray) and produced by PARO (Dua Lipa, Alicia Keys, Paloma Faith). The unassuming production gives the song space, leaving Hammar exposed to sing her opinions and emotions.

Since the release of Sex last year, Hammar has been writing new songs both for herself and other artists. She co-wrote and guested on “Easy” with the Dutch duo Sick Individuals and on the huge club hit “Holding On” by Sondr. This year Molly was invited to perform at the Swedish Grammys after an Aretha Franklin tribute she recorded with two friends went viral.

“Shortcuts (I Can’t Wait)” is a song inspired by the shortcuts one takes in trying to fulfill one’s dreams and the struggles associated with that path. Hammar explains, “‘Shortcuts’ is about all the shortcuts you can take towards fulfilling your dreams and the struggle I think everyone faces when you have big dreams and want to achieve them. All the pressure that comes with it, the frustration, the longing. I’ve learned that taking the long road always pays off in the end, if you want something that’s gonna last. Both career-wise and in life. It’s a frustration anthem in the most beautiful way.”

With a steady beat and hip retro 60s six eight undercurrent, the production keeps Hammar’s voice the center of attention. The melody has interesting sections and Hammar’s range and vocal control is beautiful. She sings with style and a subtle sensuality that is haunting. The string sounds flow under Hammar as she builds the energy and passion. The drums are kept supportive and the overused hi-hat pattern that is found in a lot of pop is avoided, which is a blessing! Hammar’s transition between her head voice and her chest voice is impressive as she navigates the R&B styled lines with accuracy and feeling.

Hammar is planning the release of two more singles this year and a second EP. Hammar’s catalog of work is growing and her singing is consistently impressive throughout. Her style of rhythmic focused singing that is filled with fluid technical lines is the heart of her amazing sound. Hammar needs to stay on your playlist and musical radar.

Molly Hammar: Website