An exploration of how platonic relationships can expand into something deeper, “Toxic” is a consuming new track from Small Shake. Based in Los Angeles by way of Seattle, the singer/songwriter ventures into a reassuring chorus — “there’s no need to feel alone, I would die to walk you home,” — amidst a melodic, reflectively dreamy rock aesthetic. The heartfelt lyrical introspection and calming vocals combine for a lovely production, one that builds well between its lusher verses and heart-on-sleeve “I will love you…” escalations.
Small Shake elaborates more on the track:
“I’ve always found myself drawn to writing about platonic relationships, the ups and downs of important friendships. This track in particular was a Nancy Drew moment, as I started writing it with the intention communicating how frustrating it is when an incredible, amazing, beautiful friend keeps dating shitty people. By the end of it realized “oh shit, I may actually have deeper feelings for this person.”
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This and other tracks featured this month can be streamed on the updating Obscure Sound’s ‘Emerging Singles’ Spotify playlist.
