‘Mermaids’ is the newest addition to Florence + The Machine’s latest album Dance Fever, an extension of the original LP released in May 2022. Although fans may be confused over why they had to wait almost a year for this single, its dark, dance-inspired instrumentals, celestial vocals and humouring lyrics were definitely worth waiting for.
The lyrics are possibly reminiscent of lead singer Welch’s teenage and pre-sober years spent in “shitty clubs doing shitty drugs”. The track perfectly encapsulates many nights out in “England [that] is only ever grey or green”, and often begin with “hugging girls that smell of Britney Spears and coconuts”. Spookily relatable and melancholy lyrics such as “The world is so much wilder than you think / You haven’t seen nothing till you see an English girl drink” are perfectly complimented by the band’s typical eerie rock and soulful sound.
The mythical theme of the single was heavily hinted at on Welch’s Instagram in mysterious posts featuring the lead singer laying in a bath with features mentioned in the track, “sharpened teeth” and a “Mermaid tail”. Produced by Dave Bayley, lead singer of British Indie band Glass Animals, the ethereal single released on April 21st is already climbing the UK charts.
As a slightly reckless English girl with ginger curly hair nearly touching my bum (and a mermaid tattoo) this song resonates with me frighteningly and I already know, will be the soundtrack to my summer.
Words by Alexandra Brooks
Support The Indiependent
We’re trying to raise £200 a month to help cover our operational costs. This includes our ‘Writer of the Month’ awards, where we recognise the amazing work produced by our contributor team. If you’ve enjoyed reading our site, we’d really appreciate it if you could donate to The Indiependent. Whether you can give £1 or £10, you’d be making a huge difference to our small team.