Cutting through with sharp synths and creative production, Dani Stocksdale‘s indie-pop single “Cigarette Rush” is set to be loved by listeners of MUNA, Holly Humberstone and King Princess.
“Cigarette Rush” starts off with the standard synth stabs and electronic bass drums of the synth style of indie pop. Close to the pre-chorus, however, you start to hear an acoustic guitar plucking in the back of the mix. This element is slowly brought to the front of the mix until the guitar, bass and live drums eventually cover the chorus.
In the second verse, the synth elements are stripped back before being reintroduced in the next chorus, similar to the guitar in the first chorus. By creating and contrasting these different textures that give us a good back-and-forth throughout the song, Stocksdale is able to change the song’s energy in a clever and interesting way without having to compromise her more restrained lyrics and melody.
This restraint in the melody is needed as the lyrics set a tragic tone. Stocksdale plays on the metaphor of a jealous infatuation being akin to the addiction to a “cigarette rush” with lyrics such as “wrap me up and put me in between your teeth.” The desire to be the first choice is clear with the second verse’s “keep me with you in your front pocket please.” Stocksdale’s songwriting style is subtle but elaborate, tugging just enough to keep listeners wanting more.
Dani Stocksdale’s “Cigarette Rush” plays lush vocals against dreamy production. The result is a quiet but haunting song sure to make listeners yearn for a new addiction.
