Sometimes you need that hard truth, which is why Please Dept. are ready to give you that Tough Love, a truly original track which is defined by a tense, pulsating, repetitive synth arpeggio and a distinct, intriguing drum rhythm. Read our discussion below!
Describe your sound in 3 words
For Tough Love: tense, bleak, and thirsty!
What’s the core story or emotional message behind the lyrics of “Tough Love”? Is it about giving it, receiving it, or both?
Our narrator is expecting to receive tough love from the person he’s singing to. While we hope this can be interpreted in several ways, including more titillating ones, the main thrust here is that the narrator is fed up with being condescended to and mistreated by a loved one.
Why did you choose “Tough Love” as the very first single to introduce the new album? What does it tell listeners about the journey they can expect from Let Me Know?
This is one of the most exciting songs on the record for us because it feels like a bigger departure from our previous songs – mostly due to the heavy synth and drum loop focus (vs. piano and live drums). While it’s in a slightly different sonic universe from our last album, it also still feels very much like Please Dept. It also captures the darker mood of Let Me Know while remaining energetic. A nice introduction, we think.
Your most honest and personal lyric?
On this album, the first one that comes to mind is from “Same Old Song,” where I sing, “I’ve got a hard sinking feeling, I’m falling hard…I’ve spent so long staring at the ceiling, I’m seeing the stars.” With the state of the world right now, I feel like many people can relate.
Artists and people that have influenced you?
My major musical influences are kind of all over the place, but the first few that come to mind are Fiona Apple, David Berman, Aimee Mann, Elvis Costello, and Danny Elfman.
In which place or state of mind do you imagine people might listen to your music?
I want them to listen to it everywhere! But I do think “Tough Love” is a great driving and singing tune.
What is the first album you remember hearing as a child?
The first album that really stands out for me is The Other Side of Life by the Moody Blues – I vividly remember riding to preschool and asking my dad to play Your Wildest Dreams again and again in the car.
If you were arrested, what would it be for?
Can you be arrested for driving under the speed limit? That’s me. I’m sorry.
Thank you!
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