SINGLE REVIEW: Goths on the Beach - Hip To Be Depressed
Goths on the Beach are based in Busan, South Korea, and are a mix of Canadians, Brits, and Aussies. They aim to combine the joys of surfing with the joys of being goth.
Their new single 'Hip To Be Depressed' offers an interesting take on a mental health song.
The lyrics take a playful look at how within the goth culture it's stereotypically fashionable to be depressed. I mean when did you last see a goth smile š¤£. However, it also offers a wider relevance at how depression has become fashionable, forced down our throats to the point we don't feel normal until we're filled with self-loathing and unable to do even the smallest tasks without being overcome with feelings of doubt. It's an intriguing lyric that is definitely eye-opening although possibly not the most politically correct!
Musically, 'Hip to be Depressed' is shimmering with C86 indie sparkle and rampant with punk-ish riffs. There's infectious energy with catchy hooks and glitter-infused melodies. It's trashy and kitsch but with a polished, well-rounded sound. The male vocals are arty with an Art Brut style attitude whilst the fem vox are bursting with pretentiousness and perfect, glamorous articulation.
There are scratchy, buzzing guitars, pulsating drums, and a churning bassline building to a chaotic burst of urgency and surfy, beach-ready vibes.
'Hip To Be Depressed' is a quirky, fun listen. While somewhat playful and tongue in cheek also offers a realness, taking a delve into how modern society has become obsessed with convincing people they need to feel a certain way.
