I have a bit of a soft spot for artists who aren’t afraid to say exactly what they mean, and Brighton-based queer alt-pop duo COWZ have already proved themselves rather adept at doing just that. Their previous appearance on the blog, with the confrontational and gloriously explosive “Miss Antoinette,” immediately had my attention. It was pop-punk with something to say, taking aim at inequalities within the music industry and wider arts world.
But as much as I love a song with a raised fist, sometimes the most powerful statement can simply be celebrating who you are. And that is precisely where COWZ take us next with “je ne sais quoi (STAR).”
This time around, the duo are embracing the joy, excitement and delicious freedom that comes with the queer experience. The track explores the thrill of being attracted to people of all genders and the wonderfully complicated feelings that can come with allowing yourself to embrace that without apology.
The inspiration is particularly fun. “je ne sais quoi (STAR)” was born from COWZ’s obsession with Ilya Rozanov, the bisexual character at the centre of Heated Rivalry, and his relationship with Shane.
“There is a certain, unexplainable beauty within feelings that develop for people when you are queer, and when the relationship you’re involved in, is queer in nature. We really wanted to depict that in a song to express the depth of our own feelings as queer people, whilst paying homage to the book and television series. We want people to hear “Je ne sais quoi (STAR)” and channel whatever that means to them. We love this song,” share COWZ.
Musically, those sentiments arrive wrapped in a deliciously synth-driven production. Saga taps back into their Swedish EDM roots with arpeggiated synths, booming bass and heavily processed vocals, creating a wonderfully striking contrast against Tasha’s glowing lead vocal.
And if the new track leaves you wanting more, COWZ are returning to London for a second headline show this October. Catch them at the iconic Sebright Arms — because if “Miss Antoinette” introduced COWZ as a duo unafraid to speak their minds, “je ne sais quoi (STAR)” reminds us they are equally unafraid to celebrate the things that make queer life sparkle.
Connect with Cowz
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wearecowz/