Notorious ‘sad bop’ producer Mitski has returned with a hard-hitting single and artistic music video

Indie lovers stop what you’re doing and rejoice. Mitski has returned with a brand new song (and music video). 

The acclaimed singer-songwriter has released her new single Working for the Knife, her latest single since her song Cop Car (featured on The Turning soundtrack) and her iconic album Be the Cowboy (2018). The accompanying music video was released simultaneously with the song, alongside the announcement of a 2022 United States and UK/EU tour. While there has been no confirmation of an upcoming project thus far, fans have been savouring the release of new content. 

Working for the Knife has an industrial sound to it when it comes to percussion; however, it is still full of synths, enchanting piano, guitars and Mitski’s alluring voice. It is perfectly aligned chaos; full of unique sounds that individually meld together to give it life. With just over a two and a half minute runtime, it’s on the shorter side of Mitski’s catalogue but still just as poignant. It still engages listeners with her relatable way with words and meticulously composed arrangement, and if there’s any time to release a song that explores why we do what we do for our metaphorical knife, now is certainly ideal. 

Reflective of her life and career thus far, she does not hold back on letting out her grievances (“I start the day high / and it ends so low / ‘Cause I’m working for the knife”). The song does not have a chorus, but rather connecting verses with all but one ending in relation to the metaphorical knife she discusses. Working for the Knife is perhaps a commentary on working in a capitalist state and finding oneself struggling with the mindset along with personal demons, brought out most of all by the final verse: “I always thought the choice was mine / And I was right but I just chose wrong / I start the day lying and end with the truth / That I’m dying for the knife”. There is a grim shadow of overexertion being demonstrated in both the song and its music video; working tirelessly even though it is not going the way you planned. 

After a two-year social media silence and surprise announcement, it’s not surprising that the inevitable hype came so quickly. But if there is one thing fans and newcomers to Mitski’s music can expect, it’s a song that will pack an emotional punch. Even if it comes unexpectedly, there is always something she has to say, even if it is nuanced. But nuance is part of the magic of Mitski, and what makes her a standout singer-songwriter. Until her next album or musical project comes around, Working for the Knife is there to be savoured.