We might as well sign up for a Messy Eater life subscription at this point! We’ve been following along with Pete Bott‘s journey from the catchy beginnings of ‘I’m A Mess Right Now’ up until his sophomore EP with single ‘I Think I’m Head For A Breakdown’. We’ve come to expect a certain level of inventive mischief from distinctively unique alt-pop project, which draws not only from a plethora of genres, but also from Bott‘s vivid illustrations.
For his latest release ‘Haunted Heart’, the York-based creative has teamed up with illustrator My Sunbeam, who brings this track to life with eye-catching artwork of a purple heart is running with all its might from a ghost. Even in the visual aspect, this artist’s personality shines through.
Now, let’s turn our attention to what we’re all here for – the music. Bott takes some classic haunted house motifs like eerie choral vocals, a flicker of ominous laughter and a minor key arrangement to construct a playfully spooky atmosphere. These quirky sounds are wrapped up in a typically Messy Eater production where dance-worthy beats and ’80s synths ignite an extroverted sense of motion. Another signature addition to this track is a bassline that lays down thick, irresistible grooves.
That dichotomy between those ghoulish tropes and floor-filling rhythms reflects the thematic collision of humour and heartbreak in this song. Bott‘s subtly distorted vocals lead us through a maze of lingering memories where the emotional potency can still creep in. It’s the spectre of a past love that you can’t seem to escape.
‘Haunted Heart’ is more than a seasonal novelty track, it’s a continuation of his sonic exploration of human nature, with all its idiosyncrasies, stumbling blocks and individual character.
You can also listen to ‘Haunted Heart’ in our Outsiders Club playlist.
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