We have to remember to breathe.

One of the things I love about doing song reviews at RGM is that they constantly introduce me to new artists, and that’s exactly what happened with Australian pop artist Rhys Tolhurst and his latest single, “Breathe!” Although he’s not someone I’d heard of before and there isn’t much information about him out there, I believe he’s an underrated gem. I can’t stop listening to the song as I write this.

In his bio, Rhys says, “just here writing songs to make you feel something,” and I can confidently say that “Breathe!” did just that for me. The instrumentals are wonderfully catchy and relaxing, while the Luke Batterbury-directed music video reflects this chill vibe with scenes of Rhys singing and dancing around the city. Interestingly, these mellow vibes contrast with the song’s rather somber lyrics about a relationship falling apart. The line “I’m just tryna breathe” speaks to the need for a break from the emotional chaos and turmoil within the relationship.

The beautifully crafted lyrics effectively capture the emotional turmoil of questioning where everything went wrong in a relationship. The singer poignantly asks, “Why do we tangle with all of this anger?” and “Nobody will ever win this game. I’m sick of your stay and go.” These lines powerfully convey the frustration and exhaustion that comes with a love caught in a cycle of conflict and uncertainty.

Rhys is set to return with a new single, “Drowning,” on September 17th, which seems poised to carry similar themes and messaging as his previous work. I, for one, can’t wait to hear it!

Josie Ravan

My name is Josie! Lover of music, video games, and other silly stuff. I also own too many plushies.