Lack The Low's ‘Know What It’s Like’ Is A Portrait Of Modern Times

Lack The Low. Photo supplied.

Melbourne musician Lack The Low (aka Kat Hunter) captures the uncertainty of modern society with her new single Know What It’s Like. In a world where the very idea of democracy doesn’t feel as concrete as it once did, her impassioned vocals and menacing instrumentation serve to create a soundscape that matches the impending sense of doom many of us are feeling, especially in 2020.

Rather than bring us together, the pandemic has served to divide us even further. Never before have several national governments simultaneously expressed such contempt for their citizens. Governments have tormented their societies, whether it be through their management of the coronavirus, or the dangling of economic relief like a reward, rather than a right. When I listen to Know What It’s Like, I can feel each bone-chilling note hitting like a metaphorical knife to the heart. Are we on our deathbed as a society, or will things turn around?

Lack The Low is a multi-instrumentalist, and that shines through on Know What It’s Like. The song doesn’t conform to the normal structures of a pop song, but its pop sensibilities are undeniable. There is a lot of musical knowledge and ability that has gone into this song, with characteristics from a range of genres expressed throughout the track. The song takes the path less travelled to the song’s emotional crescendo, which makes it hit all the harder.

There’s no doubt in my mind that music has been one of the saving graces of this year. There’s been enough creativity in the last 200 or so days to last humanity a lifetime, and yet, the creative community has been neglected. Songs like Know What It’s Like are a stark reminder that when you don’t fund the arts properly, you will absolutely lose those pushing art forward. I think Know What It’s Like is a creative triumph. It’s time to give people their flowers while they’re still around.

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Check out Know What It’s Like below. If you’re a fan of experimental music, or alternatively if love catchy hooks, then you’ll find something to bask in and enjoy on this track. Lack The Low has married pop staples with genre-bending twists and turns, and it makes for a delightful listen, as well as a song you’ll find yourself returning to time and time again.