Octopus by Newton Faulkner – Album Review

Newton Faulkner, 2025

“Emotional freedom”

Faulkner sees the new album as a deliberate break from the past, both sonically and symbolically. In November 2024 he cut off his trademark dreadlocks during the tour finale, calling it “freedom from the past” and confidently setting his own course towards a fresh chapter of authenticity and reinvention.

Whilst Faulkner’s earlier work was rooted in warm acoustic melodies and intricate fingerwork, Octopus leans into an intricate and varied palette. Tracks like these meld reflective lyricism with pulsing synths and glitchy rhythms, offering a noticeable tension between emotion and electronic movement.

Octopus centres on transformation and letting go. Faulkner has referred to it as “this is me, this is my head, this is what I love” – a personal statement free of expectation.

This emotional freedom comes through strongly across the album, taking listeners through diverse sonic terrains – distorted basslines, ambient textures and layered vocals – on a wider musical canvas than Faulkner has worked on previously. It oozes relentless authenticity, filled with songs that feel deeply personal and unfiltered, reflecting an artistic rebirth wrapped in emotional fullness.

The instrumentation may be new, yet the heartbeat of his songwriting remains firmly intact.

“Surprisingly raw”

Explosive moments such as ‘What Took You So Long’ showcase his guitar prowess and deliver a feel-good rush whilst telling a story with disarming honesty.

There are few genres Faulkner hasn’t touched on with Octopus. ‘Hunting Season’ – featuring Lissie & Los Bitchos – has a surprisingly raw country lilt; by contrast, ‘Better For You’ is a beautifully stripped-back soul ballad that underscores his growth as a musician, with technical abilities honed to another level.

The record rewards repeat listens. Traces of the earlier Faulkner remain, woven among tracks such as ‘You Make It Look So Easy’ and ‘Don’t Make Me Beg’, which retain the funky blend he has crafted so well – only now the dial is turned to a firm Spinal Tap 11.

Octopus is an impressive reinvigoration. It’s clear how hard Faulkner has worked and developed – and he should be applauded for pulling it off with ease.

The album journeys through highs and lows, rich in musical sentiment and an unmistakable love for the craft – a credible contender for Album of the Year.