In a vibrant explosion of indie and alt-pop, Leah Martel’s new track “Not Cool” is more than just a catchy tune. It’s a heartfelt declaration of self-acceptance and rebellion against societal norms. The track is a jubilant, synth-laced anthem that will resonate deeply with those who have ever felt out of place. I myself connected to almost every single lyric of “Not Cool”. It’s as if Leah ripped each lyric from my childhood and teenage diary.
Leah’s journey to this release is as compelling as the song itself. Emerging from a past marked by social anxiety and a quest for self-discovery, she crafted “Not Cool” during the introspective solitude of a lockdown and the song reflects her personal battle with lingering insecurities and societal pressures.
She reflects,
“After surviving elementary and high school, working in customer service and an office job, going to college and university I realized I still have not overcome social anxiety. So, while enduring lockdown back in my childhood bedroom and living with the absurdity of still caring what people think even when no one else is around, I wrote this song about it so I could finally try to stop caring so much.”
Combining the best of synth-pop’s gritty textures with an irresistible bass riff-driven groove, the song’s infectious rhythm and layered background vocals, crafted with the help of producer Ian Aisling, create a rich sonic tapestry that supports Leah’s message of self-empowerment. The initial riff, a crucial hook, was a challenging but rewarding endeavour for Leah and showcases her dedication to pushing creative boundaries.
“Not Cool” stands as a celebration of those who feel they don’t fit in. It transforms what is often seen as a negative into a badge of individuality. It’s a reminder that embracing one’s unique self can be liberating. For anyone who’s ever felt like they don’t quite measure up, Leah Martel’s latest release is a jubilant call to stop caring about fitting in and start celebrating the quirks that make us who we are.
