I’ve been waiting for Blake‘s new single since I was privileged to comment on her earlier release about mental health. Such a talented wordsmith to be able to put such significant life experiences into such captivating lyrics, surrounded by such commercially viable yet individualistic singles. I really like this artists emotional intelligence and her ability to transpose it to song.

Red Hearts is a number about the perils of social media, and how it can ensnare you – seen through Blake‘s personal lens. Seriously, go have a listen online, as it was released yesterday (Friday 14th June 2024) and you’ll let the lyrics sink in and you’ll start to recognise feelings of familiarity. Where’s my phone? Is there WiFi here? Have a listen.

Blake has a stunning soprano. Crystal clear, strong not warbly. With this song she’s self-produced the track and given us a deceptively light-hearted composition for such a serious subject. We’ve got some great strummed guitar. Electric guitar, clean of effects by the sound of it. Good synth backing and some nice poppy bottom end. It borders on dream pop but stays in Indie territory to my ear. Either would work, frankly, but that’s where it sits for me.

Blake says she’s on a journey of development as an artist. Good. If she’s this good now but feels she has growth, then we’re in for some wonderful stuff in the future. This is a great song, catchy melody that’s sung very well. She has demonstrated a good mastery of the twiddling desk too, so kudos there for the production.

We’ve all had those times when we’ve realised we’re stuck on the screen in front of our bleary eyes, the saccharine glare causing that gritty feeling behind our eyelids. The feeling is an empty one so often. Why did I just waste half of the night looking at this thing with no palpable benefits or wins, or anything – just a vague foreboding of the increasing shallowness it is demonstrating. Blake captures this feeling in the lyrics – artfully hidden behind that fab melody and indie pop mix.

I’m stoked she’s back, and that I have been able to post a review for her new single. This is the precursor for her new EP I’m Doing Fine, to be released in September. What a great single to promote it with. Nice work again Blake – this resonates on many levels. Please never stop doing this!

Go add it to your playlists you Indie fans, and tag the artist. You will thank me. I gave up alcohol 3 years ago but I do like chocolate. Or cheese.