Carley Varley is back, and “Butterflies” doesn’t flutter gently — it hits straight in the chest. As the second single from her upcoming Anatomy of Loss EP, the track dives deep into the emotional wreckage left behind when trust collapses, and love turns out to be a lie. This isn’t heartbreak dressed up pretty; it’s raw, loud, and uncomfortably honest.
Blending pop melodies with a sharp rock edge, “Butterflies” thrives on contrast. Carley’s vocals carry the weight of betrayal and disbelief, shifting effortlessly between vulnerability and power, while soaring lead guitars give the song its punch. The metaphors are vivid and cutting — feeling like an experiment, questioning whether you’ll ever “fly” again, and realizing the person you trusted most wasn’t who they claimed to be. It’s that dizzying moment where grief, anger, and loss all collide.
Context matters here. Anatomy of Loss is built around the five stages of grief following the end of a relationship, and “Butterflies” captures the despair that comes when the truth finally surfaces. Inspired by Carley’s divorce in 2024, the song feels lived-in rather than imagined, which is exactly why it connects so strongly. You can hear an artist turning pain into purpose, sharpening her songwriting and musical identity in the process.
Backed by a tight band — Jordan Shepherd on bass, Alex Tompkins on guitar, Fred Sedgeley on drums, with Carley front and centre — the track shows just how far her sound has evolved since Monochrome shook up the rock scene. It’s emotional, hooky, and built to be screamed along to in packed rooms and festival fields alike.
‘Butterflies’ is a heartbreak anthem powered by raw vocals, cutting guitars, and the courage to turn personal loss into something unforgettable.
