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Photo: Sarah Pardini

In her new ultra-confessional single, “touching myself,” Canadian singer-songwriter laye bares her self-destructive tendencies over a captivating soundscape as her sultry voice draws listeners in. The track opens with the sulking admission of “God, I’m such a slut,” as she goes on to confess how the person she is lying in bed with cannot live up to the fantasies in her head.

The song builds into a moody, dramatic chorus, as she sits with the guilt of hurting the person she is with and potentially ruining the relationship. A deep, pulsing bassline anchors the track, while aggressive guitars and drums create an atmospheric backdrop that perfectly complements laye’s vocals. At the bridge, her voice lifts angelically over the noise for a sensitive moment before the drums bring her back down into the chaos. The result is a haunting and hypnotic sound that draws the listener into the song's emotional core.

Despite the raw and raunchy lyrics, laye delivers the performance with power and confidence, speaking directly to the man of her fantasies that is taking up all of her thoughts. "touching myself" feels simultaneously intimate and grand, with guitars and drums swelling throughout the chorus, surrounding her vocals. She acknowledges that she would be fucking up a good relationship if she gives into her desires, which would unlikely be worth the mess she’s causing.

She imbues each word with emotion, creating a powerful connection with her listeners and bringing the song to life in a deeply personal way. As she explores her desires and internal conflict, she brings listeners along on a cathartic journey and asks how far is too far.

“touching myself” is laye’s second release in 2023, following up the vocally powerful and melancholic “blue.” Her cohesive and striking visuals and Amy Winehouse-esque aesthetics set her apart, and seeing her face plastered on billboards leaves no doubt that she has the commanding presence of a rising star. The release established her as the cover artist for Spotify’s editorial playlist “SALT,” and certainly an edgy, alternative-tinged pop artist to watch.

Watch the "touching myself" visualizer below: