18 months have passed since Australian guitar-pop trio Middle Kids released new music. Now, the band around lead singer and songwriter Hannah Joy is back with R U 4 Me? It’s faster and more furious than before, but as catchy as ever. As always, it combines infectious melodies with raucous, arena-worthy indie rock. But this time, there’s more of an edge to it, probably courtesy of producer Lars Stalfors (St Vincent, Cold War Kids, Soccer Mommy).

Explaining the inspiration for the song, Joy says: “I was at university once and there were all these signs on the walls saying ‘BE NICE IT’S NOT THAT HARD.’ The tone of the message itself actually wasn’t very nice or kind… We are always looking around at other people thinking ‘are you on my team?’. I think this just results in us all feeling lonely.”

Middle Kids’ new single comes with a moving music video, focusing on a young boy who struggles to fit in. It tells a story of youth, peer pressure, social isolation and the joy of finding a place to belong.

Recommended as well:
Middle Kids – Beliefs And Prayers
Middle Kids – Real Thing

For more great new music, follow the constantly updated Carte Blanche Music playlist.

Werner Schlosser

Music industry watcher and journalist. Worked at a CD club, a record store chain and was editor in chief of an entertainment trade magazine. Has been in the radio business since 1987, producing and presenting shows. Was music director of several stations. Also, he developed the European Border Breakers Chart, Music Moves Europe Talent Chart and ESNS Chart. CEO of Werner Bros. tekst | uitleg.