Ferry Townes delivers a raw and relatable musical punch with “Still Mad,” one of the standout tracks from the album “Side Effects of Happiness,” released last July. The song blends indie pop with a new take of her own, channeling the frustration and anger that arise from unresolved experiences.
From the first note, “Still Mad” grabs you with its vulnerability, recreating that familiar post-relationship state where emotions are left up in the air. The song’s sparse instrumentation, accompanied by soft yet impactful vocals, creates a poignant atmosphere that reflects the tension between regret and attachment. The lyrics, “I wish I would’ve walked out on you / But I’m a lady,” reflect a deep internal conflict, mixing grace with bitterness.
The chorus repeats the phrase “I’m still mad at you,” with which Ferry Townes taps into the universal feeling of unprocessed anger. The simplicity of this message hits even harder when paired with the song’s effortless melody. The instrumentation is a mix of acoustic and electronic elements, characteristic of the broader sound of Ferry’s debut album, “Side Effects of Happiness” reminiscent of bands like HAIM and boygenius, but with its own distinct twist, making it both familiar and refreshing.
“Still Mad” showcases Ferry Townes’ ability to write lyrics that feel like personal confessions, making it seem like a song born from a “letter never sent” filled with over-shared emotions. The song navigates the ups and downs of relationships, guilt, and the desire to close a chapter, something that many listeners can easily connect with.
The video for “Still Mad” complements the emotional tension of the song with a minimalist yet powerful visual setting. Set in a vast, sun-drenched desert, the imagery reflects the isolation and emotional desolation felt by the protagonist. The desert, barren and empty, becomes a metaphor for the emotional landscape of someone still holding on to unresolved anger and frustration. The protagonist’s calm demeanor suggests that she is not frantically trying to escape her feelings; instead, she is navigating them at her own pace, much like her measured steps through the desolate landscape.
The simplicity of the video allows the lyrics and emotion of the song to take center stage. The desert becomes not just a backdrop but an extension of her emotional state: isolated, contemplative, and vast, much like the unresolved feelings that linger after a relationship ends.
Ferry Townes has crafted a melodic narrative that delves into female identity, growing pains, and emotional complexities, all while keeping the listener engaged with its catchy, melancholic sound.
As part of the broader narrative of “Side Effects of Happiness,” “Still Mad” serves as a window into the turmoil and personal growth that Ferry Townes explores throughout the album.
Ultimately, Ferry Townes captures that moment when anger lingers just beneath the surface, all while delivering a hauntingly beautiful performance that invites listeners to confront their own unresolved feelings. With “Side Effects of Happiness,” and especially “Still Mad,” Ferry Townes proves that sometimes, raw emotion is the key to creating unforgettable music.
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