In a time when music genres are blending and changing, Scarlet Mill is set to impress with their new single, "Sad Affair," released on June 4th, 2025. This music feels like it belongs in a mysterious film set by a windy beach, giving listeners a glimpse into the emotional depth of their upcoming album, and it's captivating.
"Sad Affair" isn't your typical sad love song. Scarlet Mill draws inspiration from a variety of musical styles, mixing the dramatic flair of David Bowie, the storytelling of Tom Waits, and the heartfelt openness of Rickie Lee Jones. Rather than just copying these influences, the band takes elements from them to create a sound that is entirely their own.
At the heart of the song is a narrative about regret and choices that can't be undone, a theme that many can relate to. The lyrics carry a poignant weight, like stumbling across a personal letter you weren't meant to see, filled with emotions of longing and loss. But it's the music that brings the story to life. A touching trumpet solo, recorded right by the ocean, pierces through the song like a lighthouse beam cutting through the fog, helping listeners navigate their feelings. The production is rich and layered without feeling cluttered. You can hear the warm sound of a Hammond organ buzzing with urgency while guitar riffs add a touch of romantic memories. There is also a deep sense of sadness reminiscent of fado, a style of Portuguese music renowned for its honesty. Still, this music is rooted in alternative glam rock, with nods to the grand styles of the early 1970s and a jazzy feel that makes it transportive.
Despite its emotional intensity, "Sad Affair" feels personal, making it all the more surprising. It's as if Scarlet Mill is inviting you to sit quietly beside them and share in a heartfelt confession through music. This isn't just a song, it creates an atmosphere, a mood, a memory that you didn't even know you were carrying. This first taste of their new album, "Sad Affair," sets a high bar. If this is any indication, Scarlet Mill is about to deliver a collection of songs that will resonate long after you've heard them, like the lingering sound of a distant trumpet that stays with you even after the music ends.
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