Teddy Swims I’ve Tried Everything But Therapy (Part 2) Album Review
Gaining prominence with his 2022 hit single "Lose Control," which achieved significant chart success and earned 1.4 BILLION streams in 2024 alone. Teddy Swims' latest body of work, I've Tried Everything But Therapy (Part 2), released on January 24, 2025, continues the emotional journey from Part 1 of the album; previously released in 2023.
The themes of love, heartbreak, and self-reflection are explored more in-depth, with songs that dive into complex emotional landscapes, often with raw, confessional lyrics. His voice, frequently compared to Lewis Capaldi, delivers those themes with incredible vocals, resonating deeply with listeners who appreciate soul and vulnerability in music.
With the collaborations featuring artists like GIVĒON, Muni Long, Coco Jones, and GloRilla, the album also brings some fresh dynamics. GIVĒON’s smooth, emotive vocals add another layer to the exploration of heartache, while Muni Long and Coco Jones bring their unique contributions, making for an album that blends soulful ballads with moments of powerful energy.
While some critics argue it doesn’t surpass his earlier work, I believe it’s only gotten better and will continue to grow. His consistency with sound and genre-blending style remains unmatched. Swims even achieved his first No. 1 album on the UK charts with "I've Tried Everything But Therapy (Part 2)," marking a significant milestone in his career. Not only that but he also earned himself a spot among some of the best up-and-coming artists at this year’s Grammy Awards, with a nomination for Best New Artist.
With a natural ability to connect emotionally with his audience, Swims’ performances are marked by their authenticity and sincerity. His eclectic musical style, which draws on influences from classic soul to modern pop, has earned him both critical acclaim and a growing fanbase. As a rising star, he continues to carve his own path in the music world, building a legacy of emotional depth and artistic evolution.
Just to name a few of my favorites from this release Both “Hammer To The Heart” and "Northern Lights" stand out as my favorite tracks. From my first listen, these are the songs I keep coming back to. Swims reflects on the end of a relationship, cherishing the good times while accepting the need to move on, and the metaphor of 'hammer to the heart' evokes the intensity of heartbreak, yet there's still a glimmer of resilience woven throughout the track.
Examples of a few of my favorite lyrics from these songs:
“I count the stars inside your eyes
Oh, what went wrong and what went right?
It fades away as years go by
We may not have a whole lifetime
But at least we had the Northern Lights”“Baby, I'm helpless, baby
Porcelain in your hands, bound to fall apart
'Cause you know how to break me
Hammer to the heart”
Though “Northern Lights” and “Hammer To The Heart” may not be listed as top hits from this album, they’re a top hit for me!
Overall, I’ve Tried Everything But Therapy (Part 2) highlights Teddy Swims' emotional depth and artistic growth. The album demonstrates clear progression and consistency. With standout tracks and fresh collaborations with rising talent, it’s a compelling addition to his discography. His achievements reflect his steady rise as a major force in the contemporary soul and pop music scenes, with continued growth both artistically and commercially.
As Swims continues to refine his sound and storytelling, this album sets the stage and paves the way for even greater developments to come in his career.
Listen to the incredible Teddy Swims below!
-XOXO Rachel
