BACK WITH ME - SMRTDEATH

Genre bender, smrtdeath, is back with another emo rap, alternative, pop-punk jam. Smrtdeath, the project of Winnipeg native Mike Skwark, gained popularity on Soundcloud in 2017. After his tracks “everything” and “i don’t feel anything” became breakout singles, he dove deeper into the emo rap world and released sethany in 2018. Since then, his releases have dipped into other genres, and we can hear this maturation on last week’s release “Back with Me.”

On “Back with Me,” smrtdeath reflects on missing a less than great relationship. He is self aware, with seemingly simple lyrics like “I know you run out of patience, I always want some more.” He describes their differences throughout the song, building up to the lines “but for you I would rewrite this thing / If that meant you would be back with me.” It evokes a mixture of sweetness, nostalgia, hope, and sadness.

Supported by the masterful co-production of Andi Inadomi, Jordan Reyes, and OMEGA, the song soars. Looking at OMEGA’s history, it’s apparent why he’s the perfect fit for smrtdeath. With past writing and production credits including a mixture of Big Freedia, Lizzo, Chloe & Halle, and Fall Out Boy, OMEGA tastefully marries rock guitars and arena drums with 808s.

SMRTDEATH - BACK WITH ME

Along with the single, smrtdeath released a music video for “Back with Me.” VHS style footage really brings out the nostalgic feeling. The video features what appears to be a happy couple, until things take a turn with the implication of cheating at a party. The lyrics suggest that he feels that he is the problem, while the video suggests otherwise. This juxtaposition adds to the emotional weight, introducing features of self-doubt and blame. The video is also chock full of symbolic easter eggs (pay attention to the roses). With a new Epitaph Records deal, a fresh sound, quality visuals, and airtight production, smrtdeath is bound to have a big year.

Arielle Tindel is a Berklee College of Music student from Cleveland, OH. She will graduate in December with degrees in Music Business Marketing and Songwriting. In her free time, Arielle can be found gardening or playing bass.