In her latest single, “Fall Apart,” alternative pop artist Taylor Hughes under her moniker, pure xtc presents a super relatable exploration of stagnant and struggling phases, especially post-pandemic.
The genesis of “Fall Apart” stems from a period of emotional upheaval. With the song coming from pure xtc’s own struggles with self-doubt, financial hardships, and the pervasive sense of aimlessness, it easily becomes a narrative that many can relate to, especially young adults in the pandemic.
The sonic landscape of “Fall Apart” is rich and immersive, characterized by shimmering synths and pulsating beats that give life to the despondent and inundating melancholy and altered perceptions with angst, urgency and frustrations. The emotional depth that permeates every layer of the composition is successfully manifested partly by the hands of co-producer Bryan Czap and mix engineer Walter Kazmier.
At the heart of “Fall Apart” lies Hughes’ haunting vocals, which exude a sense of resignation and introspection. With deep, rich tones, they deliver introspective lyrics that paint a vivid picture of inner turmoil and self-discovery. She woefully details very relatable things we do that may resemble depression over time as in her line, “I fell back asleep counting stars on the ceiling.”
She also openly acknowledges being miserable with an undertone of sardonic shade to her situation with the line, “I am the queen of the pity party.”
Accompanying the release of “Fall Apart” is a short film, set to premiere on March 20. As part of a trilogy of short films, “Fall Apart” promises to engage audiences on a multi-dimensional level.
Listen to “Fall Apart” to feel heard and touched by the rich and evocative delivery of pure xtc.
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Photo Credit: Jacob Schermerhorn
Review By: Naomi Joan