Drawing us in with a multidimensional rising frequency, Laughing Cats open GYB (Get You Back) with an immersive energy, expanding with cerebral ad-libs and atmospheric vocals, setting the tone for an opus that feels both futuristic and nostalgic. There’s a sense that the music taps into something beyond the ordinary, engaging with our psyche through ethereal, glitch-pop-infused layers.
The guitar glistens throughout the track, providing a shimmering melodic backbone in line with the cover art, while the textured drums add a subtle complexity that demands repeated listening. The intertwining of these elements forms a rich auditory landscape where relatable prose finds its home. It’s within this sonic framework that GYB expresses a deeper truth: a journey toward self-empowerment and independence, a theme that is both personal and universal.
Vocally, the song is a masterclass in dynamic range and emotional depth. The glitch-pop meets ethereal pop production allows both Tony Fredianelli and Lauren Schiff to shine in distinct ways. Each vocalist contributes their unique energy – Tony, with his masterful guitar work and polished musicianship as a former member of Third Eye Blind, and Lauren, whose lyrical prowess stems from her stage acting background. Together, they create a perfect harmony of storytelling and sonic exploration, layering vulnerability with strength.
What makes GYB particularly fascinating is its sense of timeless futurism. Drawing from their love of 60s and 80s music, Laughing Cats infuse the song with a retro sensibility, yet it feels entirely relevant in the modern world. The influence of iconic bands like The Beatles, The Cure, and Depeche Mode is evident, not just in the structure of the song but in its philosophy. There’s a certain idealism embedded within GYB – an exploration of human emotions and experiences through a sound that feels both fresh and nostalgic. It’s as if the song exists outside of time, bridging the gap between past and future.
In terms of thematic depth, GYB is centered around a relationship – specifically, the experience of “getting someone back,” yet it leaves space for interpretation. For one, it may serve as an anthem of reconciliation, while for another, it might represent a personal breakthrough, a declaration of independence from toxic patterns. The lyrics reflect this duality, embodying both hope and empowerment. The idea of self-empowerment is mirrored in the vocal tone, which remains soft and vulnerable yet exudes an underlying strength, illustrating the delicate balance between vulnerability and empowerment. Tony and Lauren tell us, “Hopefully the song helps someone stand on their own two feet and finally breakout of any pattern. It’s all about celebrating one’s own power, and maybe even challenging another person to step up!”
The production quality is meticulous, thanks to the contributions of Vinnie Castaldo at the Tone Factory in Las Vegas, whose engineering elevates the song’s polished feel. Yet, it’s clear that the heart of the song lies in the synergy between Tony and Lauren. This collaboration feels almost serendipitous, with their creative energy sparking something truly special. The result is a sonic journey that invites reflection. The duo confess, “GYB is all about self-empowerment and motivation to think independently. It’s also about never losing one’s authentic vulnerability. That’s why the vocal tone is soft. It’s meant to show a level of vulnerable strength against a very persuasive energy.”
GYB is certainly an invitation to explore deeper truths about oneself, relationships, and the world at large. Laughing Cats masterfully blend their nostalgic influences with forward-thinking sound design to create a track that is as thought-provoking as it is sonically captivating. The song leaves an indelible mark, not just on the ears, but on the mind – encouraging the listener to “get yourself back” in ways that transcend the superficial.
We love what Tony Fredianelli and Lauren Schiff are manifesting, and have added GYB to our New Music Spotlight playlist, as well as our TRIPPY and TIMELESS playlists, whilst we anticipate future releases from Laughing Cats‘s upcoming debut album, Funny Money!