Seduction meets destruction in Sydney Ross Mitchell’s ‘Forward To The Kill’.
‘Forward To The Kill’ is a raw, intimate exploration of fatal attraction. The song, both haunting and mesmerising, pulls listeners into a relationship where danger and desire intertwine, creating a dark yet thrilling and inevitable sense of ruin. With vivid lyricism, Mitchell captures the seductive allure of self-inflicted heartbreak, leaving a lasting impression from the first note to the final lyric.
The song opens with a gentle, stripped-down guitar; its soft, delicate strumming and subtle reverb create the intimate atmosphere that evokes a dreamy mood. In the first verse, we meet Jacob, an enigmatic yet flawed character whose disarming charm is palpable. The imagery of his “shark bite” scar sets the tone for a relationship built on half-truths and bravado. The singer-songwriter’s amused acceptance and knowing smile in response to Jacob’s obvious lies adds emotional depth, hinting at a fascination with his imperfections. As the second verse unfolds, the relationship's intimacy deepens, with lines like “I can only see him clearly when I’m keeping one eye closed” beautifully capturing the blurred lines between reality and perception—an all-too-familiar experience for hopeless romantics who often indulge in selective vision.
The chorus is where ‘Forward to the Kill’ truly shines. With the line “Somehow I am sure that I could cum from just your mouth over my ear,” Mitchell doesn’t shy away from the intense, visceral emotions at play. Mitchell’s lyrical prowess is on full display as she balances vulnerability with confidence. Lines like “You have eyes just like a baby animal, and all my fear / That you might hurt me is replaced with knowing just how bad you will” are a masterclass in poetic storytelling, capturing the intoxicating blend of fear and fervor. The lyrics feel deeply personal yet universally relatable for anyone who’s ever danced on the edge of heartbreak. Musically, the chorus builds on the dreamy foundation set by the opening, introducing more prominent drums, layered guitars, and divine harmonies that elevate the intensity without losing the song’s lush, seductive tone. There’s a sense of inevitability in the way the music swells—almost as if Mitchell is steering us toward the emotional “kill” she’s anticipating.
Produced by Mitchell herself and Jeremy Schmetterer, ‘Forward to the Kill’ leans into a minimalist yet atmospheric production that perfectly mirrors its lyrical themes. This restrained approach allows her tender vocals to take center stage, showcasing their delicate warmth and sultry sensuality. A pulsing bass line adds an undercurrent of tension, reflecting the push-and-pull dynamic of the narrative. Mitchell’s conversational delivery, marked by a breathy intimacy, draws the listener in with a whispered confidence. The hazy, ethereal soundscape creates a sense of both closeness and vastness, amplifying the song's emotional depth. Allowing her vocals to shine with gentle fragility, the production amplifies the song’s personal and confessional tone, bringing the emotional depth of the narrative to the forefront.
In ‘Forward to the Kill,’ Sydney Ross Mitchell crafts a darkly beautiful anthem for anyone who’s ever been seduced by their own worst impulses. It’s a song that lingers, both in its evocative lyrics and its moody, captivating soundscape. Mitchell doesn’t just tell a story; she makes you feel every breath, every hesitation, and every thrilling, inevitable step toward the kill. This track is a powerful reminder of her unique voice in the indie music scene—haunting, raw, and impossible to ignore.
9/10
Sydney Ross Mitchell’s ‘Forward To The Kill’ has been added to under the radar’s Elite Picks.