Track Of The Day: Nell Mescal - ‘Killing Time’

Following her transcendent rise in 2023, Nell Mescal heralds the new year with soaring, alt-pop number ‘Killing Time,’ a transcendent and energetic new release which showcases Mescal’s undeniable prowess and flair as a songwriter.

There is an incautious emotional logic to the song’s structure, mirroring a young woman’s understanding of her own agency. Without a shred of time to kill, Mescal opens the track with a bang; a fully-fledged being that shimmers above the bright, propulsive instrumental.

“It’s a song written about looking back on a relationship and wondering if the other person was just as invested or just killing time,” explains Mescal.

Accompanying the 'Killing Time' is a lyric video replete with raw footage from Mescal's previous gigs in 2023.

Having cut her teeth early on the live circuit, Nell Mescal had an impressive touring schedule in the last year, having performed at Latitude, All Point East, Kendall Calling, Electric Picnic and toured with the likes of HAIM, Florence + The Machine, Dermot Kennedy and The Last Dinner Party.

Nell Mescal supporting Dermot Kennedy at Marlay Park on 23rd June 2023. Copyright Abigail Ring, Hot Press.

It's shaping up to be another major year for Mescal, as she prepares to release her debut EP Can I Miss it for a Minute on 3rd May 2024 via LAB Records.

The singer discusses the stimuli for her forthcoming EP: “Can I Miss it for a Minute is a concept EP written about growing up, moving away, friendship breakups and trying to navigate between current emotions and negative memories.”

“Each song tells a part of the same story with a beginning, middle and an end. Some songs written in the moment and some written in retrospect. It talks about my life and how I deal with experiences that have shaped me. Most importantly I think it’s about moving on from things that used to have a hold on me.”

Listen to Nell Mescal's new single 'Killing Time' below.