Strange Symbiosis

by Rough River

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DeclannShields What a gorgeous, vulnerable song. Such delicate lyrics and storytelling - sung with a voice so beautiful, genuine and warm that it immediately wraps you in its embrace, and holds you tightly like a child. Can't wait to hear more!

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about

A raw and honest reflection of the artist's journey into motherhood and the unforeseen challenges that come with it. The song was written and recorded in the early days of motherhood, during those hazy, rare moments where Kate could steal away and pluck a few notes and write a few lines.

Fittingly, Strange Symbiosis is about the struggle of holding onto one's own identity while embracing the overwhelming love for a new child. Kate’s music often touches upon the liminal periods of life, where a person is straddling the line between the old and the new, and learning to accept a new reality. The single was recorded at home, giving it a warm and low-fi quality that reflects the intimacy of the early days of motherhood.

Rough River recorded guitar, vocals, and violin while her daughter slept, and Ryan K Brennan (Julia Jacklin, Noah Dillon and Phantastic Ferniture) added percussion and mixed the track. Her brother Lucas Harwood (King Gizzard) added keys, mellotron, and piano, rounding out the lush sonics of the track. Kate's decision to record at home was not only a matter of practicality, but it was also a way of taking back control and empowering herself with new skills during a time when things often felt out of control.

lyrics

Stuck to you, brain erasing forming anew
Most of the time, can't think straight
But I know what to do

You on my left, her on my right
In this moment, I am the giver of life

But it's not easy
Having your body on call
In this moment
It's not easy at all

Some days I'm not sure
This kind of devotion suits me
But you are mine, and I am your devotee

The smell of my milk
Sweet
On your breath
Some kind of strange symbiosis

credits

released March 5, 2023
Guitar, Vocals, Violin - Kate Skinner
Percussion, mixing - Ryan K Brennan
Piano, Mellotron - Lucas Harwood
Mastered by - Joe Carra, Crystal Mastering

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Rough River Melbourne, Australia

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