"In a world where strength is encouraged, and expression of feeling has been painted as the opposite of strength, I'm over here arguing that one cannot exist without the other."
These wise words from Los Angeles-based songwriter Beck Pete is the perfect summation of the artist's musical style and purpose. Pete has mastered the mix of pop, soul and rock; her sound is so distinct. She is an unapologetic, honest force of nature that exemplifies the future of the music industry.
Pete began releasing music in 2018 and has since crafted a discography of varying and meticulously designed tracks. Two of her earlier works, "Lonely" and "Vertigo," abide by the same outline: verses rich with profound vocals backed with muted, ambient instrumentals, followed by an explosive chorus. These songs perfectly highlight the release of finally letting your emotions run free and showing off her vocal prowess and raw lyrical ability.
"Vertigo" exemplifies Beck's skills with musical imagery. The song is disorienting and immersive, similar to songs like "Whiskey #4," which is edited to sound like it is being played underwater. The song's pace and the dejected sadness of its relatability are similar to "Me, Denial and Space," which combines sad, slow-plucked guitar with seething, punching words.
On the other side of Pete's discography are "Softie" and "April Fools in February." Both are songs with deeper, heavyhearted meanings that are portrayed through upbeat, bubblegum pop to help the listener be more forgiving with themselves for relating to hard truths.
On this phenomenon, Pete says, "I just hope to tell stories in a way that impacts people. 'Genre' will wax and wane with what serves that story best, but one thing will stay consistent - I want to create a safe space to feel … I hope to remind you that feeling is not just a positive thing, but also an inherent part of truly being alive. I hope to make you feel that, specifically — alive."
Pete's new single "Bite Down" rests between pop and alternative genres but is nevertheless unique and experimental, something that all other artists of the genre strive to do. The song dances between grit and groove and is a testament to Pete's creative storytelling ability.
It contrasts her other work like "Lonely" and "Vertigo" by featuring a buildup at the very end, making the song a cliffhanger that inspires listeners to follow up when her album is finally released. The song is vulnerable and passionate, all packaged in a track that encourages multiple listens, full of confidence and sweeping harmonies. The song is an ode to the extremism of human nature and the inner battles that come with existence, all done with a balance between sweet and rebellious.
It would be a crime for fans of Mitski, Billie Eilish and Phoebe Bridgers, along with anyone who has experienced the complexities of the human condition, to miss out on Beck Pete's upcoming album. She will continue to release singles for "Scared Of Everything Part 2" in the coming months, and if "Bite Down" is any indicator of the album's potential, it will be an instant classic.
