Dominique Lloyd, better known as Dommo, has released his newest single, the optimistically titled, “Silver Linings.” A member of the vocal group, Gold Standard LTD, Dommo has by his own description, had a rocky road in order to arrive where he is today. Originally from Ohio, Dommo has also spent a great deal of time in the DFW area of Texas. He started out like many do, by writing poetry that eventually evolved into songwriting. His lyrical style on “Silver Linings,” is indicative of a deeply empathetic individual.
“Silver Linings” is a dish with a pinch of several different ingredients. It’s not as likely to turn off those who aren’t R&B enthusiasts, as other more blatantly genre specific songs would. This is a track that uses traditional instruments, such as guitar and piano, and does so to tremendous effect. Of course, its Dommo’s voice that is the most revelatory aspect of “Silver Linings.” His emotional transparency has to be experienced to be fully conceived and appreciated.
I can feel the weight on your soul/cause pain is you’ve ever known/but I can see that silver lining. From the bluesy guitar opening, that gives way to a somber but comforting melody, Dommo has us hooked. He doesn’t unveil his gorgeous falsetto until around the minute mark, and it truly sounds like an Angel’s gathering call. You might compare it to early D’Angelo, but this is far less sensual, yet far more powerful. Dommo navigates the domain of “Silver Linings,” so skillfully and gracefully, and never once exhibits anything even remotely disingenuous.
Getting back to the lyrics, things are admittedly a bit shrouded in that regard. Dommo isn’t always decipherable, which can be mildly frustrating, especially when you’re so enveloped by the piece. Having said that, it’s the disquieting lifelong battle with pain in the form of poverty and loss that fuels his performance. What’s important is that you can feel the honesty of Dommo’s words, even if they aren’t always clear. It’s abundantly obvious, when he sings, “and it still hurts,” that these scars are uncomfortably real, and they’ve yet to fully heal.
“Silver Linings” certainly benefits from having a radio-ready final mix. There’s an acute attention to detail on this record, that gives it a robustness that isn’t commonly achieved. It’s not just what they implemented, but where and precisely how much of it. There’s a number of delightful surprises throughout the track, that keep you invested in it from the first note, until the last. It’s unclear if Dommo intends to continue pursuing a solo career, or if “Silver Linings” is simply a one-off. Regardless, this review is intended to advocate for this single, as one of the best songs of 2022, thus far. Go out of your way to find it, as you won’t be disappointed. “Silver Linings” is now available for streaming.
Troy Johnstone
The music of Dommo has been heard all over the world in partnership with the radio plugging services offered by Musik and Film Radio Promotions Division. Learn more https://musikandfilm.com