The keen reader might remember Zach Haselow from an article we published in summer 2025, praising his debut single ‘Cruel For The Summer’ as an “uplifting, summery, bouncy production, evocative, vibrant vocals with a touch of nostalgia, and a great deal of relatable lyricism”. We stand by our words; back then, it was clear that Haselow was not improvising anything, instead carefully unveiling the sort of artistry that takes years to build. Fast forward to today, and Zach has returned with a sophomore effort, ‘The Kill’, a piece steeped in introspective songwriting and honest authenticity.
In a way, the track positions itself between fierceness and melancholia. Acting as a post-mortem of a troubled relationship, ‘The Kill’ analyses all of the toxic behaviours and problematic processes that left a hard mark on Haselow’s romantic allure. Yet, we are confident that the song also serves as a cathartic act, a way to process a bundle of bad emotions. From a musical standpoint, ‘The Kill’ jumps into bold alt-pop territories, ending on a high and shifting to intense rock-coded energy. Such aural eclecticism feels truly cinematic, with Haselow taking listeners through a quiet beginning and a triumphant, hard-hitting ending.
Delving deeper into the songwriting ethos that propels the record, the American musician explains: “This is the second single off of my upcoming EP, and the project entirely explores the emotional states of being that I experienced while dating an addict. ‘The Kill’ specifically centres my anger and obsession with this man and dives into my vulnerability and lack of agency through the lens of a car accident.” James Harker accompanies Haselow on production duties.
Recommended! Discover ‘The Kill’ now: