Ellie Stokes, the creative mind behind please don’t eat me, has crafted something truly unique with her latest single, “Wade.”
Known for her eclectic roots in the psyche-punk project Grooblen, Stokes channels a softer yet equally adventurous energy in her art pop alter ego. Think existentialism wrapped in dreamlike melodies, all punctuated by her knack for eccentric storytelling.
“Wade” is a standout track from her upcoming self-titled EP, a five-song dive into “existentialism in a very fun and lighthearted way.” But don’t let the “lighthearted” fool you—this song is as introspective as they come, blending haunting melodies with lyrical depth.
A Song Nine Years in the Making
Written nearly a decade ago, “Wade” started as one of Stokes’ earliest piano compositions, a cathartic attempt to navigate her role in an increasingly fragile world. With lyrics that explore themes of climate change and personal uncertainty, the song is as relevant today as ever. “This year especially, so many of us are questioning where we fit in this evolving landscape,” Stokes shares. That sentiment is woven through the track’s contemplative piano line, which feels like raindrops cascading into a growing flood of emotion.
Enter Jim Greer, the Bay Area producer known for his work with Galactic, Foster the People, and Del the Funky Homosapien. Greer took the raw demo of “Wade” and transformed it into something even more ethereal. From reversed vocals to surreal samples, his production elevates the song’s haunting vibe, making it feel as though it exists in a parallel universe.
But the pièce de résistance? A soulful saxophone solo by the legendary Angelo Moore of Fishbone fame. The collaboration was a dream come true for Stokes, and it shows—the saxophone adds a rich, unexpected texture that feels both nostalgic and groundbreaking.
A Visual Journey
The music video for “Wade” is as quirky and introspective as the song itself. It repurposes an animation by Stokes’ friend Eye Tea, originally created for the demo version of the track. Somehow, the visuals remain perfectly aligned with the song’s themes, creating an otherworldly experience that amplifies its emotional impact.
A Glimpse into the EP
Set to release on December 13, please don’t eat me’s debut EP promises a twisting journey through artful and eccentric pop. With tracks like “Wade” leading the charge, listeners can expect omnichord riffs, bumping beats, and introspective lyrics that somehow feel like a hug from the universe.