SORE’s latest track, SMILE, exists as both an auditory journey and a visceral narrative, one that uncannily mirrors the terrifying themes of the recent film SMILE. What immediately stands out about this song is its cerebral soundscape, which opens with a steady, textured beat that climbs like suspense itself. As a hauntingly cinematic guitar emerges, layered over a dramatic build, it’s clear we are being pulled into a world where every note feels like a deliberate step into darkness.
SORE sets the stage with striking opening lines, “I frown upside down, I hate being in my skin, there’s scars on my mouth, from the poison in your kiss…”, which create an almost tangible, emotional resonance. These lyrics, paired with the song’s production, feel more like a descent into the mind’s shadowy corners than mere storytelling. There’s a pronounced dark wave pop undercurrent here, giving the track its dark yet oddly exhilarating feel. The result? A song that doesn’t just entertain; it unsettles and transfixes, demanding attention while offering unsettling catharsis.
Musically, SMILE does an exceptional job embodying the spirit of horror. This isn’t merely dark pop but an intricate blend of post-punk and shadowy pop stylings, reminiscent of classic goth sounds with a modern twist. SORE’s work feels like a soundtrack for personal demons, with the hooks “I’m in love with your smile…” and “I only smile when you’re near…” evoking a twisted devotion, mirroring an emotional state akin to Stockholm syndrome. Through these lyrics, SORE shines a light on an all-too-familiar cycle of emotional entrapment, where the very thing that causes the most pain becomes an inseparable part of the self.
The track’s exquisite sound design allows it to function almost like a visual piece, invoking scenes that would feel at home in the horror genre or an artful indie thriller. The track’s commercial appeal is clear, yet it doesn’t compromise its emotional rawness, a trait that makes it perfectly suited for Hollywood synch deals. A track like SMILE can stand alone as a single while also begging for visual accompaniment, amplifying the unease of the film’s supernatural undertones.
Despite its darkness, SMILE’s production offers listeners moments of relief, almost like fleeting glimpses of clarity amidst chaos. The deep, throbbing 808s hit with precision, reinforcing the emotional weight of the track while also adding an undeniably catchy groove. The chorus, delivered with an almost chant-like repetition, becomes not just memorable but addictive. It’s a piece of haunting beauty that captures a mood difficult to shake.
SORE has crafted a song that goes beyond music, blurring the lines between sound and emotional experience. It’s a raw dive into mental anguish, wrapped in a compelling production that leaves listeners simultaneously bopping their heads and racing their hearts. We have added the opus to ur New Music Spotlight playlist, and our TIMELESS and TRIPPY playlists, whilst we continue to stream the wider discography of SORE!