Micki XO is the professional name of Michelle Gilman, an emerging independent Pop vocalist from Portland, Oregon. The thought-provoking singer debuted her uniquely personal songwriting style in 2020 with the introspective relationship post-mortem and Rock/Funk groove of the single “Why Did I Stay.” The emotional and melancholy piano and guitar ballad “Silence” followed. In her songs she culls through disturbing memories and present-day trauma to find some solace and connection with others through music.
“War” is the latest single from Micki XO, released worldwide to all major streaming services on April 22, 2021. On her previous singles the singer explored the situations and ramifications associated with toxic relationships. On the new song, the singer examines the relationship she has with her own thoughts. The track dives into Micki XO’s own lifelong battle with Bipolar Disorder. Both musically and lyrically she presents the constant internal tug-of-war between her manic and depressive sides in a song that will feel immediately familiar to anyone suffering from the same affliction.
The song’s verse is built on a dark Electro-Pop groove. A pulsing electronic bass meets dancing synth arpeggios. Syncopated sub-rhythms and ethereal backing vocals bring a complex psychological struggle to life as Micki XO sings of “losing her own war.” The chorus brings clarity to the singer’s thoughts as she looks objectively at her struggle of a mellow piano interlude. It’s a powerful musical coinflip that gives voice to those struggling with mental illness.
Check out the lyric video for “War” below. You can also hear the song on the Deep Indie Dive playlist. Follow the links below the video to connect with Micki XO. Get on her socials and get in the loop on all of the music to come from this talented and multifaceted new artist.
