Only The Poets – 'Looking At You’
Two years after its demo became a fan favourite, Only The Poets unveil the full studio version of cathartic breakup anthem ‘Looking At You’.
The eagerly anticipated track initially gained traction when it appeared on the Reading quartet’s debut EP in 2021. Now revamped with dazzling alt-pop production, ‘Looking At You’ is better than ever.
Centring around not being able to get over an ex, the new single showcases the band’s captivatingly honest songwriting. From nostalgia to regret, heart on the sleeve lyricism explores the multitude of emotions experienced in the aftermath of a relationship breakdown. Expanding on the inspiration behind the track, frontman Tommy says:
“This song is all about a night in a club when I ran into my ex-girlfriend for the first time since we’d broken up and she was with someone else. The day after this song to air out how it made me feel. It’s a song all about heartbreak and a little jealousy.”
Blending an infectious rolling bassline with inescapably catchy hooks, ‘Looking At You’ makes for a highly addictive listen. Carefully crafted production takes inspiration from the rock-infused sound of Sam Fender and Bruce Springsteen to create some of the band’s most impressive work to date. Mellow verses offer sombre moments of introspection, while an air-punching chorus provides an energetic explosion of sound.
Crashing drums and soaring guitars form an enchanting backdrop to raspy leading vocals. Packed with raw emotion, the climactic bridge sees Tommy grapple with the mental conflict of his situation, singing ‘Wish I could say that I was pleased for you, you both look so in love’. Seamlessly shifting from points of stripped-back vulnerability to unapologetic catharsis, the moving single offers a diverse showcase of Only The Poets’ artistry.
Serving as the band’s fifth single of 2023, ‘Looking At Me’ is a powerful statement of intent and offers major promise for the future. Currently in the midst of preparing for their sold-out UK tour kicking off next month, it looks like Only The Poets will continue to prove themselves as exciting rising talents.
Words by Emily Savage
