New Music: TOVI – Progress

Alberta-born and Toronto-based, TOVI released her debut album I Keep Floating Away back in June. Progress is a particular highlight on an incredibly accomplished album. A combination of poignant vocals, post-punk guitars, and icy synths create a brooding, claustrophobic feel. Thankfully, though, the song hints at a positive ending for the song’s protagonist – TOVI herself.

Says TOVI, previously known for her work as part of Girl Meets Bear, “I wrote Progress shortly after a difficult few months of a toxic job and living situation. One day I went for a walk and realized for the first time in weeks I didn’t feel completely low. Kind of like when you have a really bad headache and then suddenly you realize the headache is over and maybe you’ll be fine.”

She adds, “The song came to me really quickly. I thought maybe it was too simplistic or childish sounding, but when I sat down to demo it – I realized I’d already said absolutely everything I need to say at that time.”

You can stream and download Progress and the I Keep Floating Away album on Bandcamp. For further listening options, check out TOVI’s website and her Facebook, TikTok, and Instagram accounts.