Phantom Sugar has released a fun and slightly deceiving single this month called KATANA. How is it deceiving? Well, it’s a pop-leaning song with bits of fun guitar riffs and memorable vocal tones…but the lyrics and implications are anything but happy.
I can’t overstate how twinkly and vibey the guitar parts are in this track, especially when paired with his unique vocals (that I love to death). Some of my favorite lyrics are: “Fresh blood filling up both my lungs / And I’m handing in my final notice / This love is not what we both dreamt of / And I never thought you’d finish me so quick”. Straight from the band’s voice, this song is about “…being stabbed in the back by a trusted ally, and the conversation post-betrayal.”
The metaphorical back-stabbing being transformed into a visual of a katana being driven through your body is INSANE in the best way, and forces you to feel exactly what the song is about in your own body.
We’ve all experienced this kind of betrayal, whether it be from a friend, family member, coworker, or significant other doing the dirty work. Turning that pain into a catchy and sparkly lofi song is admirable AND a great example of the creative process helping people work through hard emotions.
This single, KATANA, is available to stream on Apple Music, Spotify, and Soundcloud! Put this song on during your next long drive, trust me.
Written by Newt Fangs
