Honesty is a revered quality in songwriting, though it is easier to come by in some instances than others. To project truths onto others or your surroundings can be unburdening, but isn’t the most realized form of honesty. On her new single, Isabel Pless positions herself among her peers and within her own world, leveling with herself on her faults, shortcomings, and insecurities. With little instrumentation holding her up, Pless tells it like it is, aware but unapologetic in her writing. “Fuck never being quite enough / Fuck being second favorite,” she delivers plainly, with a defiance that is understated but overheard. Pless then begins into a string of affirmations and self-reminders: “You don’t have to have the answer / You don’t have to be right / You don’t have to be the strong one / You don’t have to be liked.” She’s not pulling any punches with herself, and her vulnerability is sure to resonate for listeners. After instilling this advice onto herself, Pless delivers the most important message: “Isabel, you’re allowed to change your mind.”

While it is rare in and of itself, this kind of honesty is found often within Pless’s music. Past releases like “More To Give” and “Bechdel Test” are further evidence of her strong writing capabilities, along with a knack for melody that endears Pless to her listeners. As new tracks surface and Pless continues to open herself up in her music, all who press play are sure to meet a true version of the artist behind the stinging lyricism and comforting voice in each song.

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