Henry Morris' "Kids Say" Is an Effortlessly Cool Earworm
Photo: Maxamillion Polo
With his debut album barely in the rearview mirror, indie phenom Henry Morris has struck again. If his album Jawbreaker was a foray into adulthood's peaks, valleys, and struggles, Morris' new single is an even more reflective offering. His latest track, “Kids Say,” relives the adolescent trauma of being an outcast or experiencing bullying.
It’s safe to assume that everyone has felt unworthy, inadequate, or like a disappointment at one point. This can come from a nagging voice within or, more often than not, outwardly from peers. Morris digs deep and reflects on this seemingly ubiquitous experience. The track is evocative. It immediately stirs to the surface memories of those awkward teenage years when you were made to feel like an outsider.
Sonically, Morris has traded his instruments and LA indie vibe for a filthy 808. We get dreamy, layered synths on top of a grungy kick drum. The instrumental hook is wildly catchy, immediately becoming an earworm that buries deep into your subconscious. It would be shocking if you didn’t leave your first listen and immediately start humming. What hasn't changed is his crisp, smooth-as-silk voice that immediately entrances you. It’s not just what Morris is saying but the softness in his voice that spurs on reflection.
“Kids Say” isn’t just reflective for the sake of a story and a song. It’s a reminder, saying loud and clear, DON’T BE LIKE THEM. Morris famously writes and produces all his music, so song after song, it feels heartfelt and genuine and becomes a growing resume of his talent. It’s a slight shock that we are getting new music so soon after an album, but nobody is complaining; Morris keeps leaving us wanting more.
Listen to "Kids Say" below:
