Xeren Lia’s “SUMMER LIES” opens with a gentle, almost melancholic intro before dragging you into a whirlwind of gritty guitars, raw vocals, and pure emotional turbulence. It’s like stepping onto a sunny beach only to realize the tide is pulling you under, and you’re not sure if you want to fight it or just let it take you. Inspired by Japanese rock legends like The Pillows and Nico Touches the Walls, this track wears its influences on its sleeve while still sounding unmistakably personal.
The song’s production feels intentionally unpolished in the best way possible, embracing the imperfections that make it human. Xeren’s voice is a force—deep, aching, but all of a sudden, teetering on the edge of breaking, especially when that guttural, fuzzed-out scream slices through the bridge. Lyrically, it’s a self-reckoning—a battle between holding onto yourself and succumbing to someone else’s expectations. Lines like “You’ll never steal my light” and “Cut your light in all that I’ll be” hit like gut punches.
The song veers left—swapping out crashing drums for an almost weightless, electronic groove with immersive harmonies swooning you in with the angelic soaring vocals before diving back into the chaos with shimmering guitars. It’s a sonic push-and-pull, mirroring the internal struggle the lyrics lay bare.
Even more impressive is that this nuanced masterpiece was made in a Mazda, a parents’ house, and an iPhone. No million-dollar studio, no industry polish—just raw passion and a DIY spirit that makes “SUMMER LIES” feel even more genuine. It proves that the right emotions, the right influences, and the right amount of chaos can create something unforgettable. Check it out on Spotify.
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Review by: Naomi Joan