NATHANIEL PAUL RETURNS WITH A CONFIDENCE-BOOSTING ANTHEM “THE GIRL WITH NO TATTOO”

After gracing us all with his LP ‘Turpentine,’ Nathaniel Paul is finally back. This time, analog synthesizers and punchy drum beats lead in a new single, “The Girl With No Tattoo.” The single presents unsuspecting social commentary sprinkled throughout.

These days, lots of people have tattoos! This is fine; tattoos are an expressive art form marked by exuberant creativity. However, so many people have gotten tattoos that a somewhat saturated market has emerged. It’s almost more defiant not to have one instead of giving in to peer pressure, as explored by Nathaniel Paul. The song’s message is that everyone should be allowed to come as they are without modifying themselves to please others.

This timeless idea takes on a new life form with Paul’s songwriting structure. The repeated motif drives the idea home, getting stuck in your head along the way. If only he had extended those verses, as they are full of introspective nuggets of genius that get the brain juices flowing.

Sonically, the synth-driven single flows gently, carrying the lyrics’ advice. Sometimes, the vocals get overshadowed by the drums, especially as they crescendo. However, both elements are stunning in their own right. A Strokes-y guitar lead is crunchy, adding gritty texture to an otherwise polished song.

“The Girl With No Tattoo” is encouraging and a testament to anyone who dares to be not necessarily different but, instead—themselves!