I think I’m commenting on my tendency to be melancholic, and the idea that if there isn’t some pain behind a smile, I don’t believe it. Like, I don’t believe it in myself, and I don’t believe it in others. Unfortunately, I believe in the struggle—that’s so deeply ingrained in me. I have this core belief that things aren’t worth it unless there was some painful journey to get there. It’s a belief that I’d like to get rid of—I’ve discussed it in therapy. It’s very strong in me.
lyrics
[Verse 1]
When I'm sad, I don't cry
I put on my saddest smile
Used to kick, I used to bite
Now I've lost my appetite
[Chorus]
No one wants to see you soften
So we have to harden 'til we can turn to dust
Taunt us, something that you can't have
Even if you change, you'll never change that much
[Verse 2]
If you're sad, it's alright
You'll put on your saddest smile
You'll be loved, at least be liked
Oh, your little heart has turned as black as night
[Chorus]
No one wants to see me soften
So I have to harden 'til I can turn to dust
Taunt us, something that you can't have
Even if you change, you'll never change that much
Every minute of this is production perfection — filled with clever and beautiful textures, plus rich and full throated vocal performances. So simultaneously challenging and gorgeous and captivating. I feel suspended in each moment when I listen to this spective
I think it's difficult to write songs about something other than romantic love, and still be able to communicate the intensity with which those feelings can hit a person. Some of the entries on this album are fantastic examples of this niche. dani_bloop
Alvvays has always been great, but with this album they took it to the next level. Every one of these songs is lodged in my brain now, permanently (in a good way). s. moxley
Buoyant vocals and a varied palette of synths work in perfect tandem to create gorgeous art-pop that's able to address big realities. Bandcamp New & Notable Apr 2, 2019