‘needle and thread’ marks our point of entry into Sam Short’s cathartic and hypnotic artistic universe. Dubbed as confessional pop, such a label is perhaps reductive of the transformative power held by the American songstress. You see, Short doesn’t just write songs; she builds entire atmospheres. ‘needle and thread’ is the perfect evidence of that, as a cohesive, hazy piece with a heightened and alluring emotional aura.
While Sam’s vocals are ever-luscious and haunting, the corresponding production follows suit with near-leftfield soundscapes and cinematic flair, making for a listening experience that’s detailed, otherworldly and inherently magical. Such a meaningful ethos makes even more sense when considering that ‘needle and thread’ is part of a bigger picture, an upcoming concept album dubbed as ‘earthgirl’. It’s here that we meet Sam Short at her most vulnerable.
Delving deeper into the piece, Short explains: “‘needle and thread’ is probably my most vulnerable song on the project. It has an inherent duality that makes it very unique”. The lyrical narrative is quite philosophical, embarking on a nostalgic look at romantic love and the memories we carry with us once a relationship has ended. The upcoming record, ‘earthgirl’, will expand on this very same theme, tracing “the arc of heartbreak, ego, self-discovery, and healing”.
For anyone in North America, Sam Short will be supporting Charlotte Lawrence on her upcoming tour. Alternatively, find her on July 21st at The Echo in Los Angeles.
Recommended! Discover ‘needle and thread’ on Spotify and YouTube:
