Things Only Get More Obscene
The Unconventional Inspiration Behind Personal Best
A Surreal Marathon Experience
In a moment of spontaneity, Emily from Personal Best decided to enhance her marathon experience by taking magic mushrooms while running through the streets of Cardiff. This bold choice led to a humorous exchange with her bandmate Sarah, who jokingly referred to it as "performance-enhancing drugs."
The Hinge Chronicles
Meanwhile, the band’s unfiltered discussions often delve into the awkwardness of modern dating, particularly through platforms like Hinge. The group shares their collective cringe over various prompts that flood their feeds daily, reflecting a wider societal discomfort with contemporary dating norms.
SMELLARAT: Confronting Toxic Masculinity
A Night of Inspiration
The track "SMELLARAT" emerged during a night out in Newport, where Emily and Meg found themselves creatively inspired after a few drinks. They began crafting lyrics that critiqued predatory male behavior, using inventive language unique to their artistic style.
The Birth of ‘Rat Boy’
“Romi is terrified of rats, and one ran past us,” Meg recalls, linking the imagery of the rodent to a metaphor for unpleasant individuals in Cardiff. Sarah connected their previous song about "bin men" with "rat boy," leading to a spontaneous fusion of ideas. "Poof, magic!" they exclaimed, illustrating their organic creative process.
The Creative Process Behind the Album
A Collaborative Effort
The album was shaped over nine intense days in Bristol with producer Ali Chant, known for his work with prominent artists like PJ Harvey. The limited time frame encouraged the band to lean into their "stream of consciousness," resulting in a raw and unfiltered sound.
Catharsis in Creation
One notable track, “Gok Wan,” was crafted in just two hours, highlighting the toxic beauty standards that women face in media. Emily expressed her frustration over gendered double standards in societal expectations, citing an article that praised men for aging while disparaging women.
Cultural Commentary
Timeless Relevance
Romi reflects on the cultural references embedded in their lyrics, noting that despite nods to the 2000s, the themes remain strikingly relevant today. The constant evolution of beauty standards continues to impact women, making their message urgent and relatable.
The Influence of Media
The band draws inspiration from gossip magazines and television shows like Trinny & Susannah, which inform their perspectives on beauty. Their music challenges the status quo while resonating with listeners who share similar experiences.
Conclusion
Personal Best captures the essence of modern life through their unique blend of humor, critique, and creativity. By addressing topics like toxic masculinity and societal beauty standards, they not only entertain but also provoke thought and conversation. Their music serves as both a reflection and a critique of the world around us, making it essential listening for anyone navigating the complexities of contemporary culture.
FAQs
What is the significance of the album title "SMELLARAT"?
"SMELLARAT" serves as a commentary on predatory male behavior, using inventive language to encapsulate the band’s critique of societal issues.
How did the band come up with their song ideas?
The band often draws inspiration from spontaneous moments and discussions. Their creative process involves merging personal experiences with social commentary, resulting in relatable and thought-provoking lyrics.
Are there any specific cultural references in their music?
Yes, Personal Best references various elements from pop culture, including television shows and gossip magazines, to highlight the ongoing challenges women face regarding beauty standards.
How does the band view modern dating?
The band expresses discomfort with contemporary dating practices, often humorously critiquing the awkwardness found in dating apps like Hinge through their lyrics and discussions.
