You are in for a treat with this five minute and nine second track from Los Angeles native Marina Sakimoto’s rock project Shunkan. It begins at a bit of a trudge, but the composition becomes lighter, more encouraging as it progresses. It is equally hopeful, tragic, and contemplative, full of thoughts many of us have had. Audibly, it is both dark and light, playing with the emotional turbulence of her inner thoughts and, in turn, the listener’s inner thoughts and critiques.
Admits Sakimoto of the track:
Originally, “Prettier” didn’t have a chorus like it does now, and Alex [Newport] really encouraged me to find a melody that would complement the rest of the song. I naturally gravitate toward writing bubblegum hooks, and I was worried it might become limiting—but I’ve learned to lean into my strengths while still feeling free to explore. Prettier feels like an exposed nerve, but I hope it resonates with anyone else who feels like they don’t fit into conventions.
Being “prettier” is subjective, and comparison truly is the thief of joy.
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