The latest offering from the Finnish duo MATD, ‘Read My Lips’ shines with the stunning vocal talents of Johanna Koskiniemi. Originally penned for the Eurovision Song Contest with a completely different message and sound, ‘Read My Lips’ has been transformed by the band, turning it into a powerful rock anthem with a modern story.
While the original song by soloist Anna-Kaisa Pippuri was never released, ‘Read My Lips’ has found new life with MATD andJohanna. A far cry from the original idea of dictators not having a happily ever after, MATD’s version explores the breakdown of a relationship where infidelity is the culprit. Johanna's vocals deliver a potent blend of vulnerability and defiance, capturing the raw emotion of betrayal and the strength to move on. The lyrics, particularly the line "As long as the heart beats with the rhythm of love, love needs trust, another one bites the dust," perfectly encapsulate the song's message.
Musically, ‘Read My Lips’ is a dynamic and engaging listen, shifting from solo sounds into a full-bodied rock anthem. Each verse builds with an almost psychedelic feel, drawing you into the narrative before exploding into a powerful chorus. Johanna's performance is undeniable. Her vocal range and control are on point throughout, and she brings a real depth of emotion to the song.
As with previous collaboration ‘Driftwood of Love’, MATD and Johanna pair perfectly, and the band’s label explained, “’Read My Lips’ went through many changes during Johanna's time. There were several singing sessions and the last time the words of the verses were even new. Johanna is especially happy that some of the riffs and interludes she played on the phone made it into the final version of the song.”
Along with the official release, MATD have also shared two other versions of the song, a sweeping instrumental release and the ‘Shut Up Mix’. Adding another dimension to the track, the ‘Shut Up Mix’ provides a heavier, more intense experience. It's clear that MATD have embraced their rock influences here, and the result is a song that's both catchy and hard-hitting.
While ‘Read My Lips’ might not have made it to Eurovision, it's found its true calling as a powerful rock anthem. With its strong vocals, driving instrumentation, and relatable lyrics, it's a track that deserves to be heard. If you're looking for music with a bit of bite, ‘Read My Lips’ is definitely worth checking out.
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