CATLEA turns vulnerability into strength on “Someone’s Got To,” the first glimpse of the upcoming EP Aftermath. Recorded across Barcelona, London, Cincinnati, and Israel with longtime producer Jason Boshoff and guitarist Oscar Garcia-Bragado, the single feels both deeply personal and universally relatable. Rather than dwelling in heartbreak alone, CATLEA explores the difficult road from self-neglect to self-acceptance, transforming painful experiences with dependency, addiction, and the search for validation into an uplifting indie-pop anthem.
The song opens delicately with crystalline, glistening guitar strums that shimmer like the first rays of morning after a sleepless night. Soon, CATLEA’s warm, tender voice enters with remarkable intimacy, floating gently over soft piano, sweeping strings, and understated instrumentation. The arrangement gradually blossoms without ever becoming overwhelming, allowing each emotional shift to unfold naturally. Acoustic textures remain at the forefront while elegant cello and violin flourishes expand the soundscape, creating a cinematic warmth that perfectly mirrors the song’s emotional evolution.
Lyrically, “Someone’s Got To” follows an inspiring arc of transformation. It begins with painful self-awareness, acknowledging the emotional cage built through unhealthy habits and dependence on others for affection. As the verses progress, uncertainty slowly gives way to determination, culminating in the unforgettable refrain, “If you won’t love me then I will, ’cause someone’s got to.” What begins as a desperate plea gradually transforms into an empowering declaration of self-worth. CATLEA delivers every line with heartfelt sincerity, making the emotional progression feel earned rather than manufactured.
That authenticity is rooted in real experience. The song itself became part of CATLEA’s personal recovery journey, remaining unfinished until they had embraced the very message it carries. After overcoming alcohol dependency and making healthier choices, the recording finally came together, giving the lyrics an emotional credibility that resonates throughout every chorus.
As the opening chapter of Aftermath, “Someone’s Got To” beautifully establishes the EP’s exploration of grief, healing, and personal growth. Fans of intimate singer-songwriters will appreciate its honest storytelling, while its soaring melodies and hopeful spirit make it equally compelling as an anthem of resilience.
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Review by: Naomi Joan