Naarm/Melbourne indie-pop trio the stamps deliver a vibrant shift in sound with their latest single, “Slow Burn.” Showcasing a refined evolution in their artistry and departing from their folk-inspired beginnings, Scarlett Graham, Rubina Bertolini, and Sofia Hourani explore a dynamic blend of introspective storytelling and polished and upbeat production.
The seamless juxtaposition of deeply personal themes against an infectious musical backdrop is what makes “Slow Burn” shine. The song’s tight harmonies, reminiscent of their folk roots, remain a cornerstone of their sound, but now they’re layered over a rich indie-pop arrangement that feels fresh and engaging. The balance between the melancholic lyrics and the bright music captures the song’s tension perfectly.
Scarlett Graham, who was born and raised in Toronto, Canada, shares,
“I was missing the younger aspect of myself that existed in Canada; the carefreeness of being a child, and the many friends I left behind. One childhood friend of mine was on my mind after we caught up on Facetime. After weeks of missing each other’s phone calls, leaving ‘life update’ voice notes, we were finally able to find moments to connect. It was written when I was feeling frustrated about how difficult it is to keep in touch and the pride I can often have to not be the first one to call. I am guilty of how often I never want to be the ‘needy’ one.”
Her reflections add a raw, relatable dimension that many will appreciate. With “Slow Burn,” the stamps successfully bridge their past with their future, by creating a track that’s thoughtful yet irresistibly catchy. It’s a testament to their growth as a band and a promising glimpse into this exciting new chapter of their journey.
EDITOR’S NOTE: artist stylises their name, album, and/or songs, in lowercase or uppercase letters