LAYER CAKE TURN EMOTIONAL NUMBNESS INTO AN UPBEAT INDIE POP ESCAPE ON “NUMB”
Feelings can be complicated, and Layer Cake knows how to bring the drama. The Australian band’s new track, “numb” captures the endless conflict of emotional numbness, using a happy exterior as a shield for gloomy internal conflict.
Bright, hopeful tones from the guitar mixed with the quick, shaking drum beat that gets you up on your feet. It’s energetic, fast, and upbeat, taking indie pop and mixing it with a dash of folk. Its instant warmth gives off a cozy, hometown vibe – one you would listen to while driving through a mountain road.
The lyrics detail a story of angst and impatience. Blissful vocals sketch out a scene of impatience, over the ups and downs of waiting: “Why do I feel so jaded? I hate it.”
These upset lyrics, mixed with the fast tempo, give the song a tinge of irony. What makes it work is the track's overall airiness, which gives space for melancholic feelings to mix with the optimistic atmosphere.
Vocal layering throughout is incredibly strong, carving out a niche that lets everyone shine. It especially becomes prominent during a symphony of vocals repeating “holding onto you,” creating a beautiful sound that perfectly concludes the track.
It’s evident in “numb” that Layer Cake is full of talent, and we can’t wait to see what’s next for them.
