Today we are so honored to present the brand new single, “Not Your Hero”, from Los Angeles-based Highland Kites. We introduced you to the indie folk-rock band with an interview with lead vocalist Marissa Lamar last July and also the review of their Lemonade Award winning EP, I’m Not Weak. The interesting part of about the new single is that it is interestingly different from Highland Kites‘s previous endeavors.
With “Not Your Hero”, I love the fact that the tempo is increased. While the overall style is very much Highland Kites, it offers something a little more uplifting throughout. The single is much more of a toe-tapper versus being a solemn, ballad type of track. With “Not Your Hero”, this song is a great lead single for any upcoming EP.
It teases musical growth in style and composition with a bit of a mid-century throwback but with modern instrumentation and techniques. The production is clean, but it is raw and honest with that amazing indie feel that sets Highland Kites apart. While this track is not a Top 40 song (and thank goodness), it is something that could be on regular rotation at a college radio stations.
I think vocally, it shows how confident Lamar is, but at the same time there is vulnerability in her voice that makes it feel like she is trying to convince herself as well. It is a difficult balance to find and Highland Kites ride that edge. The track title and subject matter are a great message as a double entendre in the fact that the song is fairly straight-forward, but the message can also be directed at the listener that artists and musicians are not necessarily heroes, but are just regular people too. It is a deep and thought-provoking song that is worthy of being the lead single.
Check out the exclusive premiere of the lyric video for “Not Your Hero” by Highland Kites below onYouTube and do not forget to purchase the brand new single available now: HERE!
