B-Side Guys

It’s rare to find a song that truly pushes the boundaries of what’s possible within the indie genre. But with their latest single, “If I May,” the Los Angeles-based duo Fifteen0eight has done just that, crafting a haunting and experimental track that showcases their incredible versatility and fearless creativity.

Originally written as a rock song, “If I May” was spontaneously reimagined as an alternative/underground/electronic track during a late-night recording session. The result is a song that is both strikingly original and deeply emotional, with a sound that calls to mind the experimental pop of Billie Eilish and the haunting electronica of Labrinth.

From the opening notes, “If I May” draws the listener in with its eerie, atmospheric production. The beats are sparse and minimalistic, with glitchy electronic flourishes that create a sense of unease and tension. Over this unsettling backdrop, vocalist Daphne Eleftheriadou delivers a powerful and vulnerable performance, her voice alternating between a delicate whisper and a raw, impassioned cry.

Lyrically, “If I May” is a searing indictment of a lover’s cowardice and emotional unavailability. “I was gunna love you/Like your last ones forgot to,” Eleftheriadou sings, her words dripping with a mixture of anger and despair. The song’s chorus is a powerful statement of self-awareness and self-preservation, with Eleftheriadou declaring, “Maybe I got a problem/I treat love like I’ve forgotten my garden.”

But what sets “If I May” apart from other songs in the genre is the way it uses its experimental sound to heighten the emotional impact of its lyrics. The glitchy, distorted production mirrors the sense of emotional fragmentation and confusion that Eleftheriadou sings about, while the song’s haunting melody and ethereal harmonies create a sense of otherworldly beauty amidst the chaos.

Ultimately, “If I May” is a stunning example of what can happen when artists are willing to take risks and push beyond the boundaries of their comfort zones. With its experimental sound, powerful lyrics, and haunting vocal performance, the song is a testament to Fifteen0eight’s incredible talent and their commitment to making music that truly moves and inspires their listeners. As the duo continues to push the envelope and explore new sonic territories, one thing is clear: Fifteen0eight is a force to be reckoned with, and “If I May” is just the beginning of what promises to be an incredible journey.