Highly Suspect shines on single “Serotonia,” the first official single from their highly-anticipated sophomore album, The Boy Who Died Wolf.

Highly Suspect are riding high, off of two Grammy nominations and a critically successful debut album, Mister Asylum.  Now, it’s onto a new thing for the breakout rock collective, who drop highly anticipated sophomore album, The Boy Who Died Wolf, on November 18, 2016.  The first single that was issued from the album was “Serotonia.”

“Serotonia” opens exceptionally with gritty sounding guitars. This is the expectation from Highly Suspect.  A number of notable lyrics appear throughout the song.  One of the most pointed occurs at the top of the song.

“I wish that everyone I knew was dead / So that I’d never have to pick up the phone / I just wanna be naked / And masturbate all day at home.”

While reference to masturbation is almost always shocking, frontman Johnny Stevens makes it clear he has a bigger picture in mind than…that. With ‘comfort level’ in jeopardy for some, another notable lyric is less taboo:

“Oh my heart just started screamin’ / I think I wanna be alive…”

This particular lyric occurs a couple of times throughout the song. Johnny Stevens references his flaws throughout “Serotonia,” characterizing himself as “…not that good of a person.”

Besides his character flaws, Stevens drops a number of famous actors who made it in California – specifically Hollywood.  These include Elizabeth Taylor, Audrey Hepburn, Cary Grant, etc. This references moving to California, at least in part. An interview with Vice suggests numerous things about the song (1) it’s about growing up (2) about moving to California (3) inspired by Lana Del Rey and her imagery about California.

Following his list of the California famous, an epic guitar solo appears. There is a chorus of sorts worth noting:

“I can feel it too / So what am I waiting for / I’m afraid of you / It’s just I’m not that good of a person / But it might be enough for you.”

Final Thoughts

Ultimately, Highly Suspect remains captivating on “Serotonia.” The song is well-produced, unpredictable, and true to the innovative spirit the band possesses.  Johnny Stevens sounds as ripe as ever.  

Highly Suspect • The Boy Who Died Wolf • 300 Entertainment • Release: 11.18.16

Photo Credit: 300 Entertainment