B-Side Guys

Emma Frances’ latest single, “Honey,” is a delightful mix of indie pop and folk pop, offering an upbeat yet reflective take on saying goodbye. As the second single from her upcoming EP, Caverns of Youth, “Honey” showcases Frances’ talent for blending happy, energetic melodies with thoughtful, introspective lyrics. The San Diego-based singer-songwriter draws inspiration from artists like Taylor Rae, Your Smith, and Maggie Rogers, creating a sound that is both refreshing and nostalgic. This track is the perfect soundtrack for a sunny road trip with the windows down, capturing the essence of carefree summer days.

The song opens with creamy guitars and whimsical pedal steel, setting a light-hearted tone that belies its deeper themes of separation and longing. Frances’ voice, clear and expressive, carries the lyrics with a sense of joyful independence. “Your heart is a cave filled with honey / Sticky dripping down my withered throat,” she sings, painting a vivid picture of sweetness and sorrow intertwined. The bright harmonies and vibrant instrumentation draw the listener in, creating a warm, inviting soundscape that feels both familiar and new.

Lyrically, “Honey” explores the complexities of a relationship that has changed over time. The chorus, “The caverns of our youth are gone and now it’s got me thinking / That we are not what we once were, it’s what I’ve been believing,” reflects a bittersweet acceptance of this transformation. Frances’ ability to convey such nuanced emotions through her songwriting is one of her greatest strengths. The verses, filled with evocative imagery and heartfelt confessions, further deepen the song’s impact. Lines like “The belly of desire holds a secret I’ve been keeping / That every night I see your eyes, while I’m busy sleeping” capture the lingering presence of a past love, even as one tries to move forward.

Emma Frances’ EP, Caverns of Youth, promises to be a vibrant and classic production, proudly recorded with all analog instruments. This dedication to authentic sound is evident in “Honey,” where the blend of acoustic guitars, electric pedals, and 1970s synths and electric pianos create a rich, textured backdrop for her storytelling. The song was written during a whirlwind relationship by the beach, adding a layer of personal history and emotional depth to its cheerful exterior. Frances recorded the track in a hometown studio in New England with her four-piece band, capturing the essence of her live sound.

As Emma Frances releases Caverns of Youth and embarks on a multi-city tour through the Northeast and Southern California, “Honey” serves as a perfect introduction to her music. Fans of indie pop and folk pop will find much to love in her thoughtful lyrics and melodic twists. With its blend of joyful melodies and poignant reflections, “Honey” is a testament to Frances’ skill as a songwriter and performer. Whether you’re a longtime fan or discovering her music for the first time, this track is sure to leave a lasting impression, reminding us all of the sweetness and complexity of love and farewell.