The Afterword

The Afterword write melodic indie-pop songs shaped by bittersweet self-irony, big choruses and cinematic melancholy.

With “Siren Smile”, the British duo release the third single from their forthcoming EP, turning towards a quieter, more reflective side of their songwriting. Following the indie folk-pop of “An Illusion” and “LA”, the new track is a more intimate tale of love and the lingering weight of words left unsaid.

„We wanted to convey a depth of feeling and sense of regret in this ballad, owing much to the poignant love songs of Bob Dylan and Leonard Cohen.” (The Afterword)

Built around piano and acoustic guitar, “Siren Smile” unfolds with quiet restraint, evoking a feeling of a forgotten village where memories seem to linger in the air.

The Afterword brings together British songwriters Tom Walkden and Alex Billig. Walkden has previously collaborated as a vocalist and lyricist with Boz Boorer, longtime musical partner and co-writer to Morrissey, while Billig is a classically trained pianist. Together, they combine imaginative storytelling with a warm, contemporary indie-pop sound.

The pair previously performed together in Oxford-formed band Wolventrix, whose songs drew early attention, including from NME, which highlighted their “emotionally raw lyrics and immense choruses”.

“Siren Smile” shows The Afterword continuing to shape a body of work defined by memorable melodies, quiet vulnerability and thoughtful storytelling.

Photo by © Tim Cavadini
The Afterword Management: Michael Martinek (m@fabrique.at)