"Scrawny" Hits all the Right Notes

Less than a month after releasing "Are You Bored Yet?", the Wallows have dropped the second single off of their upcoming album "Nothing Happens". Featuring vocals from Clairo and accompanied by an instantly iconic video that featured cameos from the internet's boyfriend (Noah Centineo) and The Regrettes, "Are You Bored Yet?" was a hard act to follow. However with relatable lyrics, hypnotic harmonies and a pulsing beat, "Scrawny" became my favorite song off of the upcoming album so far.

Unlike "Are You Bored Yet", which starts with a dream like chord progression, "Scrawny" starts of fast and loud and really gets in your face. The fast paced rhythm of the song makes it fun and lighthearted while also youthful and unruly. It's perfect for listening to while getting ready or driving to school. 

The lyrics are an almost too accurate description of modern youth. "I can still have wisdom and look like a child" pretty much sums up the Generation Z mentality. "Scrawny Mother- fucker with a cool hairstyle" is a uniform boys have clung to since the counterculture became cool. From Bob Dylan to Timothee Chalamet, the scrawny guy who looks a little different has been idolized as a hero by misfits. However "Scrawny" is more than a youth anthem. It exposes cool guys everywhere, revealing that despite his facade the singer is so afraid of himself and his future he is "sleeping with the lights on" like a child afraid of the dark. This personal detail takes the song from a superficial hit meant for a niche audience and makes it engaging for all.

The Wallows seem to be echoing The Breakfast Club quote, "We're all pretty bizarre. Some of us are just better at hiding it, that's all." Whether you're the scrawny guy with a cool hairstyle or the homecoming queen, none of us are certain of what the future holds. The Wallows are saying that's OK, as long we all have each other to rely on. In conclusion, "Scrawny" is a bop that is relatable and relevant, and everyone should listen to it.

Thanks for reading!