Atlanta-based artist Zoe Bayani has officially released her debut album, You Don't Want Help, on September 5, 2024. This full-length offering has arrived following the success of her earlier single, My Dog, which garnered attention for its twangy guitar work and introspective lyrics. The new album is marked by heartfelt songwriting and immediate melodies, showcasing a diverse sound from its folk-friendly opening track to heavier rock influences.
Drawing inspiration from personal experiences, particularly a traumatic break-up, Bayani's lyrics resonate with emotional depth. She commented on her creative process, stating, "I have never found solace in just explaining my emotions to my friends, family, therapists, etc. I'd rather just belt out my emotions to what feels like a void." This sentiment permeates the album, characterized by its vulnerable explorations of relationships and self-reflection.
Tracks like St. Benedict feature lush vocal harmonies and rich instrumentation, while Body Farm stands out for its intimate, contemplative development. The album is a collaboration with a talented band that enhances the overall sound, as evidenced by the multi-layered vocal performances and the dynamic shifts between folk and rock elements. For those interested in exploring more of Bayani's work, tracks such as Prophet are included in the updating Obscure Sound's 'Emerging Singles' Spotify playlist.
You Don't Want Help is now streaming across major platforms, marking a significant entry in the contemporary music scene. The artist's promotional strategy included collaboration with MusoSoup, helping to bring her music to a wider audience.