Rotate Talk With The Terrifying Lows – ‘When I Feel Like Giving Up’ Interview

We had the opportunity to interview The Terrifying Lows, the moniker of Melbourne-based artist Millott, about his new song, When I Feel Like Giving Up. A deeply personal and emotive track, it reflects on the complexities of ageing and the challenges of persevering through dark times. Known for his ability to craft introspective and evocative music, The Terrifying Lows delivers a sound that bridges raw vulnerability with atmospheric production.

In this conversation, we dive into the inspiration behind the song, the creative process that brought it to life, and how it fits into his upcoming sophomore album, Into the Dark Divide. Millott also shares insights from his experiences as a live performer, his journey as an artist, and what fans can expect next from this exciting new chapter. Here’s what he had to say:

RM: “When I Feel Like Giving Up” is such a personal and emotional track. Can you walk us through the moment or experience that inspired it?

TTL: I was reflecting on my formative years and how invincible I felt when I was younger. I was very lucky in my experiences in my 20s as a session musician. A lot of touring and recording with bigger, established artists. I also think there’s an emotional weight that comes with ageing. Like watching the sand in the hourglass dwindle.

RM: The track explores the feeling of being at a crossroads between giving in and persevering. How do you personally navigate those moments in life?

TTL: You just have to keep going. Even though continuing on your path may seem like a fools errand, giving gets you nowhere much faster

RM: How did you approach the production to capture the emotional weight of the song?

TTL: The piano part came first and that really inspired the mood for the track. To me it had a nostalgic and melancholic feel which helped me craft the narrative of the lyrics.

RM: Your upcoming album, Into the Dark Divide, seems to explore deep and introspective themes. What inspired the title, and what story are you hoping to tell through the record?

TTL: The original set of songs I had were mostly inspired by failed relationships and the shallow encounters one can experience in the aftermath. Hence “dark divide”. The final track list deviates away from this slightly but concept of division is present in all the songs. Whether that’s internal or external

RM: How does “When I Feel Like Giving Up” fit into the larger narrative of the album?

TTL: Again it’s a little bit of a departure. I didn’t intend for this track to go on the album but the more I chipped away at it the more I felt like it needed to be heard. It definitely helped expand on the concept of division I just mentioned.

RM: You’ve shared stages with icons like Dan Sultan, Richard Clapton, and Hayley Mary. What lessons or inspiration have you drawn from these experiences?

TTL: All 3 are incredible performers. It’s always inspiring to see masters of craft in whatever creative field but definitely as a musical artist it reminds me on the gravitas of a captivating live performance. Which to me is an integral part of translating your ideas to an audience.

RM: “When I Feel Like Giving Up” is a song for those navigating dark moments. What do you hope listeners take away from it?

TTL: I hope that it can remind people that everyone is going through their own struggles. The older I get, the more I’m able to open up to my friends and peers and more often than not I’m met with a mutual understand or an experience of their own. Everyone is going through it in their own way.

RM: Have you received any particularly memorable feedback from fans about your music, and how does it influence your work moving forward?

TTL: I will never forget when one of my songs was a fans most listed to song that year on a certain streaming platform. I don’t think that’s influenced my creative process at all but it certainly helped me soldier on. Sometimes it’s impossible to know if anyone really cares so it’s so encouraging when something like that pops up.

RM: What’s next for you after the album release? Are there any live performances or collaborations we can look forward to?

TTL: Everything I’m working on now is building up to the release. So more singles and exciting features and collaborations to reveal. Then album release mid next year and a slew of shows after that. Though nothing I can reveal just yet. Watch this space.

RM: Looking ahead, where do you see your sound evolving in the next few years?

TTL: I love crafting an overall sound and vibe for a cohesive body of work then moving on to the next phase or era. The songs I’m writing at the moment for the next album are again a little bit of a departure from ‘Into the Dark Divide’. Again slightly more electronic without losing the band ethos. Think the Stone Roses cross with Jagwa Ma.

As The Terrifying Lows prepares to release his highly anticipated sophomore album, Into the Dark Divide, it’s clear that Millott is an artist unafraid to explore life’s emotional complexities. Through songs like When I Feel Like Giving Up, he offers a raw and honest reflection on perseverance and connection, creating music that resonates deeply with listeners.

With a knack for blending introspection with evocative soundscapes, The Terrifying Lows continues to carve out a unique space in the indie music scene. It’s safe to say that this is just the beginning of an exciting new chapter for Millott.

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