SPIDER’s ‘AMERICA’S NEXT TOP MODEL’ is catchy cultural disruption
Video Still 'America's Next Top Model'
SPIDER’s ‘AMERICA’S NEXT TOP MODEL’ is catchy cultural disruption
Words: Dylan Murphy
The Tallaght-raised, London-based singer and songwriter pulls no punches in her mosh-pit ready new single.
Back in 2021, we caught wind of then Dublin resident SPIDER’s ‘Water Sign’ on TikTok and since then, she’s proved to be anything but a viral one hit wonder. It’s a needless task to give a precise definition of her sound, but there’s shared creative DNA with the likes of FKA Twigs and other genre-agnostic shapeshifters and on her latest release ‘AMERICA’S NEXT TOP MODEL’, she’s doubled down on a heavier approach that we’re here for.
Written in response to insecure detractors of minority art, the new single embodies a fearless energy that stands up in the face of whitewashing. Created alongside Earl Saga (Loyle Carner, Archy Moor), it’s a powerful offering from an uncompromising new artist.
Speaking on the single SPIDER says, “I started ‘America’s Next Top Model’ after a conversation with my friend Earl Saga about how safe music can feel right now. We found it really interesting that in a time where artists have the most freedom to make the most opinionated art, it sometimes feels as a collective like we are shying away from it. The video is about my own experiences online, and accepting the fact that if people already feel the need to get rid of me, that means that I’m doing something right. I’m asking the people who target the content of minority creators, “why the fuck are you so scared?” People don’t feel the need to silence something that’s not making an impact. So while it hurts and it’s confusing and it’s scary and slightly scarring, it’s only an indication that the message is being received. I hope ‘America’s Next Top Model’ stirs that revolutionary spirit, and is a big hit of confidence for those who need it.”
The single follows SPIDER’s debut tape C.O.A and ahead of a forthcoming, yet-announced EP and homecoming show at The Road To The Great Escape Festival in Dublin on May 9.
Previously, we included SPIDER as part of our Future of Irish Music feature, which you can read here.
Watch the video for ‘AMERICA’s NEXT TOP MODEL’ below:
Elsewhere on District: GALPAL announce collaborative event with Irish Film Institute for International Women’s Day.
