Switching between neon red and pale blue hues, the visuals for Gaslight reflect the varying emotional state which someone who is being gaslit can experience.

Photo: Judith Priest

Spirited siblings Phoenix and Mercedes Arn-Horn, better known as Softcult, are once again proving their multi-faceted range of musical abilities with their new track, Gaslight. Expanding their catalogue of introspective, evocative and socially critical music, the Canadian duo now delve into the psychological realms of abusive relationships and gaslighting.

Kicking off 2022 in true Softcult fashion, with a lyrical critique of misogyny and abuse of power, the two-piece’s latest single Gaslight explores the harmful impacts of emotional and mental abuse within a toxic relationship. Ahead of their forthcoming highly-anticipated EP Year Of The Snake, which is due for release on 4th February, this indie-rock track accompanies the previously-released, stellar singles BWBB and Perfect Blue.

Grainy guitars fill your ears in this perceptive track as Phoenix and Mercedes melodiously sing about the detrimental intensities of gaslighting. The particular repetition of the harmonised lyric “I don’t know what I’m doing” subtly emphasises the overwhelming confusion and mental instability which affect victims of gaslighting and emotional abuse.

Speaking about the new record, band member Mercedes Arn-Horn said:

We wrote this song about gaslighting and how it really messes with your head and your perception of reality. Being in a relationship that constantly makes you question your decisions and actions, your feelings and emotions, even your soundness of mind. It’s a tactic that many abusers and groomers will use to tear down your defences and make you easier to manipulate. We wanted to raise awareness of this manipulation technique so that whoever hears the song will be able to recognize those red flags if they encounter that kind of behaviour.

With each individual release that Softcult have blessed their listeners’ ears with, the duo’s impactful discography has grown in lyrical strength and artistic authenticity. February 4th, AKA the release of Year Of The Snake, cannot come soon enough!