There are no easy answers to be found in the sonic and emotional devastation that Backxwash offers on her latest single “9th Heaven”. The song starts with an acceptance that all things end: “Ain’t nothing sweeter than the last breath / Ain’t nothing sweeter than that last step”. But the track isn’t set to wallow in the darkness – it eventually questions this line of thought and suggests that the fight for ourselves is what makes our lives have purpose: “So run for cover / I’m ready, you motherfuckers”.
She turns horrific struggle into victory, even if the victory isn’t permanent. Her voice is as vicious and insightful as always, backed by a beat that flashes through your nervous system, awakening neurons long thought dormant. It’s a collage of mutated electronics, clattering percussion, and washed-out keys. It’s a sermon, a call to arms. A fist thrown against the sky for those who thought their resistance was pointless. We are stronger than we know, and Backxwash gives voice to our collective anguish and hope.
Listen below.
Only Dust Remains is due out March 28 via Ugly Hag. You can pre-order the album here. Follow Backxwash on Facebook, X, and Instagram.
