Hi there, let me welcome you to 7Sven: a Southern German independent artist with a deep love for the sound, craft, and emotional honesty of 1970s and early-80s records. His latest album, ‘But Live It,’ released on January 23, feels like a lost vinyl rediscovered. It’s warm, elegant, and rich with intention. Drawing inspiration from Steely Dan, Supertramp, Genesis, George Michael, Rufus Wainwright, and even Sinatra, 7Sven blends jazz-pop sophistication with cinematic songwriting and philosophical weight. “But Live It,” inspired by Seneca’s idea that life isn’t short, we simply fail to live it, the album explores movement, routine, love, doubt, and awakening, all wrapped in lush arrangements and careful production. Let’s take a deep look at it below.
Starting as one of the album’s emotional anchors, “Routine” is a powerful meditation on modern life’s mechanical rhythms. Built on steady grooves and beautiful harmonies, this song captures the suffocating comfort of repetition. It’s urgent without being loud and quietly devastating. A very good introduction to ‘7Sven.’
A delightful mini-pop epic, “Anorexic Mind” floats between fragility and tension. This song explores mental starvation; I mean, the way we deny ourselves emotional truth, rest, or self-worth. The production here is striking, as airy textures, restrained beats, and a sense of emotional weight hang in the air long after the song ends.
The album’s philosophical core and title track, “But Live It,” distills the Seneca-inspired message over elegant jazz-pop chords. This track is melodically rich and emotionally clear, carrying a sense of calm wisdom rather than urgency. It doesn’t feel like a preachy anthem, but 7Sven sings like someone who’s already learned the lesson and is passing it on.
Melancholic and poetic, “Snowman” feels like a meditation on impermanence and emotional distance. There’s a fragile beauty here, enhanced by delicate instrumentation and a sense of quiet loneliness. For me, this is one of the album’s most tender moments. This is a track you must check out.
Moving on, “Hide” explores emotional withdrawal. The instinct to disappear when vulnerability feels dangerous. Musically, the track leans into smooth grooves and subtle dynamic shifts, mirroring the push-and-pull of wanting connection while fearing exposure. With superb musicianship, this song has an effortless depth that just awakens souls.
The sixth song is reflective and nostalgic without slipping into sentimentality. Titled “Now And Then,” it’s a song that bridges past and present. The melody feels timeless, supported by classic songwriter craftsmanship and a gentle emotional arc that builds without force. In this song, 7Sven combines deep thought with pleasant sounds to weave perfection with an unmatched fire.
More expansive than its earlier iterations, “Shine (Album Version)” glows with renewed purpose. It’s a song about resilience and about choosing light even when it doesn’t come easily. The arrangement sparkles, with layered harmonies and a quietly triumphant feel. This song’s lyrics are wonderful with the matching swings throughout. It has the perfect pace selection, allowing it to keep its drive and mood until the last second.
The eighth track, “Sunset Train,” is literally and emotionally a cinematic travel song. This track captures movement: leaving, arriving, and everything felt in between. The groove rolls steadily forward, evoking motion and reflection in equal measure. There isn’t a single second of boredom in this song; every part felt worth listening to and hearing. I name it as one of my best.
One of the album’s most poetic titles, “The Days They Meet At Midnight,” feels dreamlike and introspective. It explores liminal moments: the emotional crossroads we reach when no one’s watching. Musically, this track leans into atmosphere and storytelling. The lyrics are lovely, and 7Sven’s passionate, steadfast, and sincere voice makes this song a necessary listen.
More direct in tone, “What You’re Gonna Do” confronts indecision and accountability. The groove is confident, almost Steely Dan–esque, while the lyrics challenge complacency with a calm but firm hand. 7Sven’s vocals are exceptional: refined, sharp, and full of passion. Every note has a strong resonance and leaves an enduring mark.
The eleventh track, “Angel Eyes,” is a soulful, romantic cut with classic pop elegance. This track is intimate and human, carried by warm melodies and a gentle emotional pull that never slips into cliché. As a fan of soul and romantic music, this song became one of my all-time favorites right away. Its theme and infectious vibe make it suitable for radio placement.
Simple and beautiful, “Wasteland” examines emotional emptiness and burnout. The production is spacious, allowing the theme to settle slowly. It’s a moment of stillness that adds depth to the album’s emotional arc. I immediately felt a connection with this music. Its exceptional artistry, along with its unique instrumentation, has cemented its place in my heart.
A subtle but hopeful bonus track, “He’s Moving,” suggests transformation and internal momentum. It feels like a quiet epilogue—change beginning not with noise, but with intention.
Closing the album on an intriguing note, “Steal,” also a bonus track, plays with desire, temptation, and emotional risk. Sonically refined and lyrically suggestive, it leaves you slightly unsettled in a good way.
Production-wise, “But Live It” is lovingly and carefully crafted. The instrumentation is rich yet tasteful. The keys shimmer, the guitars groove, the bass lines move with intention, and rhythms breathe naturally. Everything feels intentional, cohesive, and deeply musical.
Overall, “But Live It” isn’t just any album. It’s an album that invites us to slow down, to feel more, to question routine, and to remember that time isn’t the enemy; neglect is. With this record, 7Sven steps confidently into his most ambitious and emotionally resonant work to date, offering timeless songwriting for those of us who still believe albums should mean something.
Listen to the “But Live It” album on Bandcamp and the title single on Spotify.
Follow 7Sven here for more information.
