I Am the One comes in quietly, with a single, simple line by Noah James Mass that says it all. There is a sense of longing before each word is sung. That patience gives you an instant indication that Noah believes in the song and that it can take its own time and own natural course.
Not only are the guitars and keys almost all written, produced and played by Noah himself, but also the overall sound design. That control shapes the entire track. There's no sense of borrowed or handed down. It seems to be a single idea from start to finish, and all parts are linked.
The song's vocal is what really brings it to life. Soft and close but with plenty of feeling, it is never pushed. Noah doesn't have to belt out the emotion, it's not a matter of volume. His voice is free from any nervousness and seems to be confidently worded, as if he had given it a lot of thought.
When the chorus arrives, the song opens up. Behind the lead, harmonies develop, the groove becomes warmer and fuller, and the hook returns with the same feeling. The low end remains soft rather than heavy. It helps to keep the song close and personal, even as the music swirls around.
As the song moves on, the changes give it a definite form. It has its own shape from start to finish. The slight difference in the middle makes the final chorus more effective when it comes back. The feeling through the song that it's been heading toward that moment, and it arrives.
Most notable is Noah's restraint. He could have made this song bigger and louder, but he lets it remain as it is. This decision makes the song more powerful. Sometimes it is not wise to add more, and Noah is right here.
I've spent a little time with this one and every time I was greeted with a different lesson. I Am the One is tender, crafted and sincere. Noah James Mass is obviously an artist to watch and this song is a great example of the kind of music he can create next.
