We have a cinematic indie-pop treat for you all, one that burns with urgency, defiance and political poeticism. We’re talking about ‘Alibi’, the fierce single from New York songwriter Perenna King, which was written in response to the reversal of Roe v. Wade in the US. She confronts this defining and dangerous moment in American history with a theatrical, Wild West aura and an unflinching vulnerability.
Standing on the frontier of human rights, King plunges us into the dusty, windswept world of ‘Alibi’. Her brooding, haunting vocals drift between bitter melancholy and an unnerving strength as she chronicles the journey of women crossing state lines in search of health care. Lines like, “my body’s not your battleground, I don’t need your alibi,” are a staunch reminder of how high the stakes are.
Backing up this profound commentary is a broad soundscape of swelling strings, reverberated percussion and King‘s blisteringly soulful voice. It’s all wrapped up in a spacious yet rich production. Those undertones of indie-rock and folk-pop are reminiscent of fellow powerhouses like Florence Welch and Daughter.
In this increasingly pressing political environment, it’s so essential to have voices in the pop world who will challenge the policy makers and stand up for what’s right. Far from just a song, Perenna King‘s ‘Alibi’ is a blazing call to action.
You can also listen to ‘Alibi’ in our Shades of Pop playlist.
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