With the release of their latest single, titled ‘Fight Back’, Liverpool-based alt-folk artist Zara Smile’s is freeing themselves from the fear of not being enough.
The themes of imposter syndrome and self-doubt, which are explored in the track, give it universal relatability. The fears and nagging thoughts that come along with these emotions are captured in the song’s raw and honest lyrics. Zara’s deft lyricism allows them to convey these issues with captivating poeticism. In the first verse, the song also touches on misogyny and the inability of being able to catch up with your male counterparts, no matter how hard you might try to.
Written to make it “feel like a 5 minute long panic attack”, the song feels like it spirals as it goes on, due to its experimental arrangements and layered instrumentalism. Acoustic guitar, strings and pockets of horns give the song somewhat of a nostalgic feeling and make the song more powerful.
Zara’s perceptiveness, gives them the rare ability to dissect familiar feelings with pin-point accuracy. With ‘Fight Back’, they have turned their fears into an emotive and hopeful song which signifies their persistence against the trials of life.
Released via Come Play With Me Records’ Next Up North, ‘Fight Back’ is out now on all streaming services. The song will be featured on ‘Next Up North: Class of 2025’ vinyl compilation, which is available for pre-order ahead of its release on August 8th here.
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