We Speak Music

THELIGHTS Release New Song “Rush”

Published

3 weeks ago

May 29, 2025

Emily

London experimental duo THELIGHTS smash it with “RUSH”. It’s one of those tracks that kind of creeps up on you. It doesn’t smack you over the head straight away, but the deeper you fall into it, the more it pulls you under. There’s a tension in the way it builds—layered synths, echoed-out vocals, and an atmosphere that feels like it’s always about to burst. It’s electronic music, sure, but not in the typical sense.

There’s something about the vocal delivery that makes it hit even harder. It blends into the mix rather than sitting on top of it, which works really well here. You’re not being told what to feel, but the emotion is in there, buried under the beat. And the beat which is steady and hypnotic keeps everything moving forward. It gives the track its name: RUSH feels like motion, like trying to hold onto something that’s slipping through your fingers.

The duo SLND on lyrics and vocals, and DEETZSCHK handling production and visuals have carved out a pretty unique lane for themselves here. They’ve got clear influences, everything from left-field pop to 90s electronic and even a bit of reggae energy in the rhythm (they’ve cited Chaka Demus & Pliers before), but it’s never a direct lift. What they’re doing is building something new out of the fragments—familiar in feeling, unfamiliar in sound.

Stream “Rush” By THELIGHTS here.

We Speak Music

Seb Adams’ Nostalgic Revival In New Album Is Where 90s Pop-Punk Meets Modern Magic

Published

5 hours ago

June 19, 2025

Philomena Marie

Seb Adams returns with Bittersweet Nostalgia, an album that feels like a heartfelt letter from the past, stitched together with the sonic threads of 90s pop-punk and modern alt-rock. Following his 2022 debut, Between Awake & Fast Asleep, Adams deepens his sound and emotional reach, blending infectious energy with introspective lyricism. This is an album made not just for nostalgia’s sake, but for catharsis and growth.

The opening track, “Rearview Mirror,” sets the tone with its propulsive guitars and anthemic chorus, immediately capturing Adams’ desire to leave behind negativity while celebrating life. It’s a spirited introduction to a record that balances upbeat melodies with sincere vulnerability. The title Bittersweet Nostalgia perfectly encapsulates this delicate dance between joy and melancholy that runs throughout the album.

Adams wears his influences proudly, with clear nods to Green Day’s punk urgency and the emotional honesty of Jimmy Eat World. But what truly distinguishes this record is the infusion of gaming and internet culture. Tracks like “Guitar Hero III” bring a wistful, almost cinematic quality that is both personal and relatable, conjuring memories of simpler times with an arcade-inspired rock pulse.

Lyrically, the album is rich with themes of mental health, self-reflection, and evolving relationships. “More Than You Know” stands out as a poignant tribute to friendship lost, layered with heartfelt vocals and thoughtful instrumentation. Meanwhile, “Man In The Mirror” pulls no punches, tackling addiction and heartbreak with raw honesty—a reminder that Adams isn’t afraid to confront the darker aspects of life head-on.

Musically, Bittersweet Nostalgia is a textured blend of guitars, pianos, ukuleles, and synths, lending the album an organic yet contemporary feel. This DIY approach to production brings an authenticity that resonates deeply, making every track feel like a personal conversation. The upbeat energy never feels superficial; it’s grounded in real emotional experience.

Closing with a stripped-down reprise of “Worth Waiting For,” Adams leaves listeners with a message of hope and resilience. This album isn’t just a collection of songs — it’s a journey through the complexities of growing up and looking back with both fondness and clarity. Bittersweet Nostalgia is a refreshing reminder of music’s power to heal and inspire.

For fans of alt-rock and pop-punk with heart, Seb Adams delivers a compelling sophomore effort that balances nostalgia with forward momentum. It’s an album that feels deeply personal yet universally accessible — a fitting soundtrack for anyone navigating the bittersweet path of life.