New Release: Ezra plays into vulnerability with Sober Cigarettes, featuring Scarlet House
- magscenee
- Oct 12
- 2 min read
For LA-based alternative-pop artist Ezra, 2025 has marked a defining chapter in his career. From hitting the road in support of close friend Braden Bales to releasing four striking new singles that have cemented his reputation as one of alt-pop’s most introspective rising voices, Ezra has spent the year sharpening both his sound and his storytelling, and his newest release, Sober Cigarettes, stands as a testament to his growth.
Sober Cigarettes captures a moment of self-awareness, as Ezra admits to choosing his habits over human connection. He captures that uncomfortable space where habit becomes refuge, and in doing so, he exposes a kind of emotional neglect that’s harder to admit. Ezra's ability to create tracks that strip back emotions and dive into vulnerability through his lyrics is what has made his music stand out and resonate with his fans so much.
The track initially kicks off with a softer mix of acoustic guitar and vocals, bursting into an atmospheric production contrasted by its leading drums, giving the track a mid-west emo feel with a grungier pop-punk vibe. This nuanced sound is a signature of Ezra’s artistic identity, blending different aspects of genres that inspire him to create tracks that feel both personal and timeless, a sound so distinct that it has led fans to dub his style “ezracore”.
The song captures the discomfort of being aware of your own flaws but not yet free from them. Ezra doesn’t pity himself; he writes from a place of acceptance and that subtle recognition that self-awareness doesn’t automatically translate into change. Scarlet House’s presence adds depth to that story. His smooth vocals and grounded delivery complement Ezra’s reflective tone, creating a subtle back and forth that feels lived in and genuine. Where Ezra’s performance feels internal, caught in self-awareness, Scarlet House brings weight and perspective.
Ezra has also approached the promotion of his upcoming album in a uniquely creative way, releasing a series of short films, directed by David Mazouz, to accompany the tracks. Each film acts as a visual extension of the music, exploring the emotions and narratives of the songs in a cinematic, understated style. These films give fans a more immersive experience, emphasizing the stories behind the lyrics, highlighting not just his music but his attention to storytelling and aesthetic detail.
With Sober Cigarettes, he marks a clear turning point, showcasing an artist fully confident in his identity and unafraid to confront difficult truths in both his lyrics and his sound. If this release is any indication, Ezra is an artist willing to push boundaries, explore complexity, and invite listeners into his world. Sober Cigarettes is proof that his journey has only just begun, and it sets the bar high for what's yet to come.
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