By Shea Roney

Riding the release of double lead singles, Ella Williams, known as Squirrel Flower, is loud and forthright with the announcement of her new album, Tomorrow’s Fire, the follow up to her 2021 release, Planet (i). Known for her folk-like approach to song production, Williams has been boxed into specific genres. But between these two songs, in almost a shoegaze-like fashion of constructed guitar feedback, there is no denying that “Full Time Job” and “When a Plant Is Dying” are just a lead up to a Squirrel Flower album that breaks all previous labels. 

“Full Time Job” finds Williams in an internal struggle to find her placement in the world. “Doing my best is a full time job/But it doesn’t pay the rent.” Racking through economical struggles, heteronormative expectations and the fear of renunciation, the frustration in Williams’ words is only amplified by the ripping guitars and thrashing drums behind her.

The second released single, “When a Plant Is Dying,” is just as, if not more heavy handed. With a mellow, yet sturdy, vocal approach, Williams’ words sit intensely in a world of deafening guitar sounds that beautifully clash together. With an accompanying music video that mixes the power and rage of mother earth with its tender beauty, Williams wanders the scenery alone, taking it all in.  

Squirrel Flower will release Tomorrow’s Fire on October 13, 2023. Be sure to catch her performing live at 7th St. Entry with special guest, Goon, on January 20, 2024.