Matilda Mann has released another single for her widely anticipated second album, 'Kismet', debuting on the 4th of September. With the wide success of her single 'Inventing', released late last year, an instrumental tone of light airiness has been cast for the album that her most recent song, 'After The Love', completely lives up to. 

One of five singles preemptively released, 'After The Love' contributes to this heavenly, smooth indie-pop sound currently being curated by Mann, reminiscent of Laufey and Clairo's 'Charm'. Its upbeat and airy tones, paired with funky guitar and layered with dreamy strings, create what could be a hopeless-kitschy romantic life soundtrack. Produced alongside Jonah Summerfield, a long-time collaborator, it is one of the fresher resonances from Mann in comparison to her typical indie-folk sound.

The youthful nature of the song embraces the whimsical way Mann expresses herself lyrically, encouraging us to lightly welcome what could be the more brutal side of the song, especially in lyrics such as "What's left in your heart? (In your heart) / Could you be the man of my dreams / Or a stranger who flees in the dark?".

Asking what happens after the initial date, the song ponders the possibilities of a relationship. Questioning whether they will stick around, and if they could handle the expectations of Mann, or end up hurting her. Opening the song directly with "It's easier said than done / Loving me for life, it is long / If you really wanna make it last / The least you could do is ask".

The song perfectly encapsulates the meaning of 'Kismet', querying the future of a relationship, and fantasising about destiny. It sets up intrigue as to how the other singles on the album will connect to this sparkling fate. 

Kelsey Catherine Walker

@kelseycatherinewalker

Image: 'Kismet' Official Album Cover