Haim - 'Everybody’s trying to figure me out'
Haim release sensational new single Everybody’s trying to figure me out.
The sisters are back with their second single from their as of yet untitled fourth album, which is set to be released later on this year.
For the past couple of months, they have been teasing new music on social media, and finally released lead single Relationships last month, which marked their first new music in five years. I think it’s been worth the wait.
Upon release, lead singer and frontwoman Danielle Haim said that Everybody’s trying to figure me out is her favourite song that the trio have written in recent years. As soon as I pressed play on it, I knew why.
The track has many characteristics of classic Haim songs, like strong, crunchy guitar, great drums, and a clear point. It’s also not the band’s first song about anxiety and mental health. 2019’s Now I’m In It immediately leaps to mind when I think about their songs that are similar in tone, and the whole Women in Music Pt. III album was the first time they really explored these topics in their work.
But this track feels fresh, new, and totally singular, much like everything they put out does. They have completely honed their craft and abilities and know exactly how to make music that just sounds polished yet raw, crafted yet natural.
“Everybody’s trying to figure me out/Ohh, and that’s alright/My top’s down and I’m losing ground/Ohh, and that’s alright” Danielle opens the song, her voice possessing a vehement quality. During the fantastic pre-chorus, the song speeds up and listening to it is exactly how anxious, racing thoughts feel. “Oh my god I feel like I might live inside of everyone’s thoughts/I wish I could slow the tape down to the point where everything stops” she sings rapidly.
My favourite part of the song has to be the bridge, where the production slows down this time. It feels like a mantra, and I found it so comforting. “You’re think you’re gonna die, but you’re not gonna die” is repeated several times, as Danielle’s sisters Este and Alana sing back up. It’s paired with a gorgeous acoustic guitar that appears to reaffirm what she’s singing. And by the end of the song, it feels like we’re in a place of acceptance that people will think whatever they want, and that’s fine.
My personal pick for the best song of the year so far, I am even more excited for Haim’s upcoming album and can’t wait to hear what other treats they have in store for us.
Words by Lucy Skeet
