Finnish indie rock duo messier’s new single, “Baskervilles,” is a visceral exploration of mental turmoil, giving listeners an unflinching look at how the mind can spiral into a cycle of fear and self-doubt. Set to appear on their highly anticipated album Stream of Guilty Consciousness, “Baskervilles” is a raw, emotionally charged track that sets the stage for the duo’s evolving sound.
The track begins with a soft yet eerie guitar riff that quickly builds into a wave of sound, mirroring the increasing intensity of the thoughts and emotions described in the lyrics. The song’s pace is deliberately erratic, shifting between moments of calm and bursts of frenetic energy. This musical dynamic creates a sense of unease that perfectly complements the song’s theme of catastrophizing and its devastating effect on the mind.
Huumonen’s lyrics are simple but profoundly effective, encapsulating the universal experience of imagining the worst possible outcome in every situation. The song speaks to the addictive nature of anxiety and how it can become all-consuming, preventing the mind from finding peace. It’s a deeply relatable theme, one that will resonate with anyone who has ever felt trapped by their own thoughts.
Musically, “Baskervilles” marks an evolution in messier’s sound. The duo has clearly pushed the boundaries of their creativity, crafting a track that is as complex as it is emotionally charged. The layers of sound and texture in the song give it an otherworldly quality, pulling the listener into a space that is both beautiful and unsettling.
As a preview of Stream of Guilty Consciousness, “Baskervilles” is a stunning indication of the direction messier is headed. It’s a bold, daring track that showcases the duo’s ability to experiment with sound while staying true to their emotional core. Fans are sure to be captivated by what’s to come in 2025.
