Review: "Cruel Lover" - ARI LEE

ARI LEE stuns with her moody latest single titled “Cruel Lover”, a track filled with the embedding of tumultuous, complicated romance and personal anecdotes in a story highlighted by a vivacious pop sound. LEE’s voice commands the entirety of this song, as if her voice acts as a conductor, and every piece of this song makes up an orchestra. Her voice is simultaneously full, soft, and powerful - much like the story behind “Cruel Lover”. LEE does a brilliant job of intricately displaying balance within an unhealthy dynamic, showing listeners the details that make it difficult to leave circumstances such as these. While her lover ultimately carries out acts that are the direct opposite of what LEE does, this person still presents positive qualities, creating conflicting emotions for LEE. With an alternative & indie edge, “Cruel Lover” mimics this confusion both in sound and in its lyricism. While LEE describes her lover as cruel, bitter, and an acquired taste, she does not leave criticism of herself out of the equation. Describing herself as a “foolish lover”, this is an example of direct opposition from her partner and adds layers to the story that make LEE all the more personable and reflects quality, thorough songwriting. 

With an instrumental tone similar to the likes of artists such as Phoebe Bridgers, Clairo, etc., in combination with LEE’s unique, low-pitched, and moody voice, “Cruel Lover” is a track that will take you by surprise. Upon first listen, I was shocked that a song of this caliber & ambiance has yet to be included within a film soundtrack or played throughout the speaker systems of coffee shops & book stores. LEE has produced a track that sets her apart from other artists, especially due to her ability to show both sides of this relationship and reflect on herself. While she is not the subject matter behind “Cruel Lover”, her actions are put on display alongside her partner. This unique dynamic is one that is not often discussed within pop songs, yet it adds a fresh perspective for listeners to follow. Lines such as, “I’m such a foolish lover, begging for the summer while I’m dying from the heat”, not only show LEE’s heightened level of reflection as an artist & partner, but additionally show how someone’s poor treatment can unfortunately translate and morph into the other person questioning their own choices & actions. LEE does not shy away from this predicament and instead weaves this pain & confusion into “Cruel Lover”, birthing a track that can be a place of solace & comfort as well as a channel for anger & hurt. 

ARI LEE is an emerging singer-songwriter from Hong Kong & Portugal, currently based in London, England. Growing up with a love for artists ranging from Lady Gaga and Rihanna to The Killers and The Beatles, LEE implements qualities from these artists and their music into her own work. LEE began writing songs and exploring the world of music before age 10, and just last year started the process of releasing her work. Her music includes stories inspired by her own experiences in an approachable but interesting way. She aims to be honest within every song she releases and to pinpoint specific, identifiable feelings that listeners can resonate with. In September of this year, LEE released her debut EP - “Trophy Wife in Training” - a body of work that she poured into for over a year and has set the tone to help lead to the next chapter in her story. Now, with the release of “Cruel Lover” - her latest single - LEE is putting her feelings on full display and leading toward a bright, expansive musical career. 

Written By Madison Spies

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