Softcult have unveiled new single ‘She Said, He Said’ from their upcoming debut album

Softcult have released their latest single ‘She Said, He Said’, a track from their forthcoming debut album ‘When A Flower Doesn’t Grow’, which is set to be released on 30th January via Easy Life Records.

Mercedes Arn-Horn, the band’s vocalist, explains that the single addresses the issue of believing survivors of assault. She says, “It’s known that SA cases are historically under-reported, and most victims don’t come forward for fear of being accused of lying. When survivors do come forward they are all too often blamed for encouraging the situation that led to the assault in the first place. Myths and bogus claims aiming to dismiss allegations of assault perpetuate misinformation that leads to mistrust and suspicion of survivors when they decide to share their stories. This culture of misogynistic skepticism contributes to the silencing of survivors, enabling predators to continue with their mistreatment while escaping accountability. This song tells a story that is all too familiar; the “nice guy” that coerces and pressures his victim instead of asking for consent.”

Regarding the accompanying music video, Mercedes adds, “We wanted to create a visual that tackles this very poignant and nuanced subject matter in a respectful way, while still resonating and getting the intended message across. We decided to focus on the frustration many women feel when we tell traumatic stories and are met with suspicion and accusations. We chose an interrogation room setting to capture the feeling of “making a case” for our truth to be heard and believed. We included some Easter eggs referencing other videos from this album cycle, which represent a common theme of patriarchal oppression and abuse. The clues displayed as evidence on the interrogation room table lead directly to the anonymous male characters in other videos (Naive, 16/25). However, the detective fails to make the connection, blinded by patriarchal bias, and instead casts suspicion and classically blames the victim.”

Their dates read:

NOVEMBER
17 BERLIN Badehaus
18 COLOGNE Helios
19 HAARLEM Patronaat
20 PARIS Supersonic – SOLD OUT
22 GLASGOW King Tut’s
23 NEWCASTLE The Grove
24 MANCHESTER Manchester Academy 3
25 NOTTINGHAM The Bodega
27 LEEDS The Key Club
28 CARDIFF Clwb Ifor Bach
30 SOUTHAMPTON The Joiners

DECEMBER
1 BRISTOL Exchange
2 LONDON The Dome