Philadelphia-based indie pop sensation Kississippi, the musical project of Zoe Reynolds, has released a powerful new EP, Damned if i do it for you, as of today, July 26. The EP features four tracks that delve deep into themes of heartbreak, self-discovery, and emotional resilience. In an exclusive interview, I got to discuss the EP with Zoe, along with her experiences touring, collaborating, and interacting with her fans. With a blend of whimsical, bold melodies and introspective lyrics, this project is a testament to Kississippi’s growth as an artist and individual.
Reflecting on the release, Zoe shared, “I’m feeling good about it. It happened really fast. I got so caught up in tour, and now I’m like, ‘Oh my gosh, this is finally about to happen,’ and it’s in just a couple of days. So yeah, I’m a little nervous, a little excited. Classic pre-release feelings, you know?”
The EP kicks off with “Smaller Half,” a poignant track co-written by Zoe, Sarah Tudzin, and Maddie Ross. It explores the aftermath of a significant relationship, capturing the raw emotion of losing a part of oneself when a partnership ends. The song opens with the haunting lyrics, “I used to be somebody else, keeping your name around my neck, now I keep it to myself, like it’s a curse and I’m bound to it.” The production, led by Andy D. Park with additional input from Sarah Tudzin, complements the emotional depth of the lyrics with striking and evocative instrumentals.
“Last Time,” the lead single, showcases Kississippi’s ability to turn personal pain into a defiant anthem. Inspired by a real-life encounter with an ex-partner at a gig, the song is a playful yet bittersweet farewell. “Heartbreak, I’ll be the only one to break mine, baby, you just saw me for the last time,” Zoe sings, capturing the essence of moving on from a painful past. “As I took the stage with only a drum machine and mic, it hit me that I was essentially doing karaoke to these songs about unrequited love, knowing that the person I wrote them about was in the next room with someone else,” Zoe recalls. The track’s infectious energy and relatable narrative make it a standout in the EP.
When asked about the decision to make a standalone EP, Zoe explained, “I honestly just wanted to make like a four-song EP, something quick and sweet, to give myself a little more time to work on whatever the album’s going to be. These songs are contained in their own project. They all have their own little thing going for them, which is actually what I like about the EP.”
In our conversation, it was like chatting with an old friend. Zoe was incredibly friendly and open, making the interview flow naturally and comfortably.
“Jesus Freak,” co-written with Dan Campbell, Sarah Tudzin, and Maddie Ross, is an anthemic guitar-pop track that captures the exhilarating yet anxious feeling of new love. The song’s bright, celebratory sound is contrasted with introspective lyrics, creating a cathartic experience for the listener. Erika Lyijynen’s scream adds a raw edge to the track, highlighting the emotional intensity that Kississippi is known for. The lyrics, “On my knees, looking like a Jesus freak, I’ve been weak, wish that you would come to me,” evoke a powerful image of vulnerability and longing.
Zoe reflected on working with Andy Park again: “If anything, I’ve just gotten more comfortable with myself and with him. From the jump, Andy was someone I felt really safe talking to about my feelings and opening up to. This time around, it felt like there was less pressure because it was an EP and not a full album. I was able to go in with songs that were about 75% there and fill in the gaps during the studio sessions.”
The EP concludes with “Bird Song,” a track that takes a birds-eye view of Zoe’s mind and circumstances during the writing process. Co-written with Sarah Tudzin and Maddie Ross, the song encapsulates the mental and emotional journey of negotiating past hurts and forging ahead. The line, “Standing in the mirror, sticking out my lip to see if I’m still pretty when I’m cryin’, I’m cryin’,” captures the raw, introspective nature of the track. The addition of Zeus Ross and Maeby Tudzin’s barks adds a unique and playful element to the song, showcasing Kississippi’s innovative approach to music-making.
Zoe elaborated on the different approach to writing this EP: “Bird Song is probably the saddest and most introspective song on the EP. I had a similar experience with Andy when I was working on Mood Ring. He pushed me to finish the song quickly, and the lyrics just kind of spilled out of me. It’s one of the best ways to write, staying in the moment.”
Touring and performing live have also influenced Kississippi’s music. “Touring with inspiring people like Chris Carrabba from Dashboard Confessional, Kevin Devine, and Dan Campbell from The Wonder Years has definitely impacted how I make music. They pushed me to be a better performer and express my emotions through performance and songwriting. It has made a big difference in how I write and perform,” Zoe said.
As Kississippi prepares to hit the road with indie rock musician talker for a West Coast tour, fans can expect an unforgettable live experience that brings the new EP to life. The tour will begin on July 18 in Seattle and conclude on July 26 in Los Angeles, with stops in Portland, Sacramento, and San Francisco along the way.
With Damned if i do it for you, Kississippi cements her place as a formidable force in the indie pop scene. The EP is a celebration of self-discovery, resilience, and the transformative power of music. As Zoe Reynolds continues to blaze her unique path, fans can look forward to more heartfelt and compelling music from this rising star.
Damned if I do it for you is out now.
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