Release Date: 08/09/2024
"Leah" is a defiantly buoyant breakup song about the importance of staying soft. This latest alt-rock single by Belle Shea features grungy guitars, hypnotic vocals, pounding drums, and a DIY "theremin", as well as a compelling mix by Melina Duterte (Jay Som). Belle Shea deftly balances scorn with softness, and tempers hurt with hope on this tight 3 minute rock song that makes you want to let out a feral “yeah!” by the end of it. Stick around for the explosive instrumental bridge, and hit repeat for the delicately ironic opening lines.
Belle Shea belongs on any playlist alongside boygenius and Blondshell with her cutting lyricism, confessional vocals, and ability to spin painful experiences into songs that feel like flying. Her last release, “pink moon spring”, was featured in American Songwriter after winning the magazine’s “May Flowers” promotion and finishing in the Top 25 for the 2023 Song Contest. Her first album has been featured on Steve Ferrone’s SIRIUSXM radio show and she was selected as an alternate for OneBeat’s 2023/4 Artistic Fellowship.
Lyrics:
I put your baby photo in the stuff you asked me to return
When all was said and done
I couldn't stand to see it burn
I got invited to see a couple friends of yours play in a show
After all you did
I can't believe they'd think I'd wanna go
And I couldn't erase you even if I tried
With all your witty little criticisms ringing out through my mind
And it broke my heart when Benny took your side
He said, if I didn't want it, why did I make you mine?
I took a job at a dive bar down off of Bowery and Bleecker
Saw a girl there, she looked just like you
I hid in the bathroom
Cause I couldn't meet her
And lately I've been wondering if I'll ever feel like the same
I had to leave the synagogue
I couldn't bear to hear your name
And you go and play me like a theremin
It's like you're making these old wounds sing
It doesn't matter where I go
It's where I think you've been
I gave you my best
You wanted my everything
And ok, I believe you
You're doing what you need to
But I would never be cruel like you
I could but I refuse to
Ok, babe, be honest
You're doing what you promised
You say you don't know anyone soft like me
Well now I see why