If you’re in search of a song that resonates with raw, unfiltered emotion and intricate artistry, Bec Sykes’ latest single, “I Know What You Like,” is a must-listen. Another prelude to her anticipated debut album Pepperpot Magic (November 6), the song unveils a departure from her previous soundscapes to her embracing a richer, more layered texture.
“I Know What You Like” is a journey through the disorienting early stages of a relationship, where initial infatuation clashes with unsettling revelations. Bec weaves a narrative of intimacy tangled with ambiguity, reflecting the confusion that arises when someone’s true colours start to surface. Her personal and piercing lyrics capture the delicate balance between doubt and affection that defines new love.
Bec shares,
“I wrote this song when I was housesitting in Glen Huntly for about six months. It was my first time living on my own and I felt super creative because I didn’t have to worry about people hearing me sing while I was trying to write. ‘I Know What You Like’ is about feeling unsettled when someone you’re in a new relationship with shows their true colours, but giving them the benefit of the doubt because you’re in love with them. It’s about the confusion of feeling like you know someone but not having a point of reference about their character because you met on a dating app.”
The song’s haunting atmosphere is enhanced by its experimental edge and the melancholic, yet captivating, backdrop of indie-folk. Bec’s evocative voice guides one through a labyrinth of emotions, supported by a rich sonic palette that deepens with each listen. The track’s eerie and dreamlike quality is perfectly mirrored in the accompanying lyric video, set against the surreal landscape of Bruno’s Sculpture Garden. The visuals, steeped in both whimsy and mystery, add a striking visual dimension to the song’s narrative.
What makes “I Know What You Like” stand out is its ability to evoke a visceral response, drawing one into a deeply personal exploration of love and self-discovery. Bec’s candid reflection on her experiences and the song’s atmospheric production make it an intriguing and emotionally charged piece, offering a glimpse into her evolving artistry.
Photo by Jeff Andersen Jnr
