Four-piece Speedial are a relatively new project based in London, and “Tourist” is their third single. The group has woven a sound that blends elements of jazz, math rock, and post-rock, creating a unique and intriguing experience. The constant, wavering, climbing saxophone propels the song forward, while the noisy drums and dual vocalists craft an atmosphere of total immersion. The band consists of vocalists Serena Garrod and Millie Kirby, who also play guitar and bass in the band, respectively. The dynamic interplay of the duo takes center stage in “Tourist,” crafting a headspace that mirrors crowded, chaotic thoughts. Drummer Joe William Killick and saxophonist Monarch Vavrechka complete the lineup, enriching the song and the project with added depth and distinctive elements.
“Tourist” is an intimate exploration of a draining relationship, marked by unresolved conflicts and an effort to reclaim autonomy. The song’s lyrical brevity is haunting at times but impactful, conveying profound meaning with just a few words. A metaphor as simple as “you’re a tourist, nothing more” captures a sense of detachment, while the following line, “I’m bored, and I’m selfish,” reflects a bleak, honest self-awareness. Speedial has shared that they are interested in “themes of self-perception/villainy,” as “these themes complement the complexity and atmospheric density of the instrumentals we create.” “Tourist” delves deeper into this urge to write lyrics and music that emerge from the darker corners of the mind.
“When I’m feeling guilty about something I tend to get quite dramatic and it’s easy to spiral into thinking one bad decision makes people think the worst of you. It was cathartic in a way to write all of that negativity down and realise that that isn’t really how I am. I wanted the lyrics to be quite bleak and matter of fact. I usually get caught up with flowery language and making my lyrics kind of opaque and hard to decipher but I didn’t want to hide behind that for this song.”
-Serena, Speedial
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