Wilder Music

By chlo gif.

After almost a month of teasing us on TikTok, Emma Andersen has finally dropped her new single ‘FTSG’ (or ‘Fuck, that’s so gross’). The Nashville based indie-pop artist provides a hauntingly honest track about giving yourself ‘the ick’ when you realise that you’re in love, laid over an energetic instrumental of acoustic guitar, gentle violin, and soft drums. Andersen’s folk influences shine through and set the tone of equal parts yearning and embarrassment. The lyrics really delve into what it means to be an avoidant in recovery, shedding the layers of disgust and nonchalance in an act of reluctant vulnerability. 

The melody is vivacious and hopeful, fitting with the cautiously optimistic lyrics; I’m sure that Andersen’s attempts to deflect her yearning and downplay the romanticism by using descriptions of “gross” and “disgusting” proves far too familiar for so many of us. Lyrics such as “I can’t breathe sometimes, wanna suffocate my butterflies” and “I’m out here tripping over words, wearing your shirt,” reveal the yearning underneath her falling bravado. It’s almost as if we are reading her journal, as messy emotions are laid bare, raw and unfiltered. Each verse uncovers how Andersen, like many of us, uses deflection and disgust as a disguise for our deeper feelings in fear of being laughed at or worse, left behind; paired with delicate and warm vocals, this single has the perfect late summer vibes especially for those embracing vulnerability and honesty this coming autumn.

Yet again, Andersen has provided us with another instance of pure relatability that could provide the soundtrack to many of our relationships. This new addition to Andersen’s work has left me itching for more, and looking forward to what she has in store for us in the future. If you’re a fan of Noah Kahan, Lizzy Mcalpine or similar then I’d definitely check out your new favourite artist, Emma Andersen.