Hey music lovers, let’s talk about a track that’s got me buzzing with its infectious energy and raw emotional depth. Brighton’s alt-pop duo CATBEAR just dropped their latest single, “Who Cares?”, out May 23, 2025, and it’s a synthpop gem that’s equal parts dancefloor banger and introspective heart-to-heart. If you’re into nostalgic vibes with a modern twist, this one’s about to climb your playlist. Let’s dive into why this track—and this duo—is worth your attention.
A Synthpop Anthem with a Vulnerable Core
“Who Cares?” hits you with shimmering synths and a driving beat that screams 80s-inspired alt-pop, but there’s a punky edge that gives it some serious attitude. Think The Human League meets modern indie grit, with a nod to the cinematic layers of synthwave. The melody is catchy as hell, pulling you in with its upbeat vibe, but the lyrics tell a different story—one of social anxiety, self-doubt, and the pressure to “live your best life” when you’re already spiraling before you even step out the door.
Zoe, one half of CATBEAR, describes it perfectly: “It’s that quiet panic before you’ve even left the house.” The song captures that exhausting mental loop—wanting to connect but overthinking every move. Lines like that hit home for anyone who’s ever felt awkward in a crowd, making “Who Cares?” a relatable anthem for the overthinkers among us. The contrast between the track’s vibrant production and its vulnerable core is what makes it so compelling. It’s like dancing through your insecurities, and I’m here for it.
The production, all crafted in Zoe’s home studio, is crisp and immersive. You’ve got those lush, nostalgic synths layered with punchy guitar riffs that add just the right amount of bite. Sarah’s vocals soar, balancing raw emotion with a defiant “screw it” energy that ties the track together. It’s the kind of song that feels like it was made for late-night drives or a solo dance party when you need to shake off the day.
Meet CATBEAR: The DIY Duo Taking Over
For those new to CATBEAR, let’s catch you up. The duo—best friends Zoe and Sarah—started making music in South London, jamming at DIY gigs before leaning into their love for synths and big, emotive production. Their sound pulls from the indie, synthpop, and electronic vibes of the 80s, 90s, and 00s, with influences ranging from The Human League to Ladytron. Since their 2018 debut single “Beast of the Night,” they’ve been carving out a space in the alt-pop world with their emotionally honest songwriting and hands-on approach.
Everything CATBEAR does is DIY, from writing and recording to designing artwork and mailing merch from Zoe’s Brighton home. Their debut album, Into the Light, was a love letter to their early singles, while 2023’s I Choose Love explored LGBTQ+ themes and darker, post-punk influences. With millions of streams and a growing global fanbase, they’ve played festivals like The Great Escape and Bristol Pride and shared stages with icons like The Human League. Their live shows, including upcoming gigs supporting Roller Derby in London and Brighton this May, are where their energy really shines.
What sets CATBEAR apart is their authenticity. They’re not chasing trends—they’re telling stories that resonate, whether it’s about heartbreak, longing, or, in this case, the quiet chaos of social anxiety. “Who Cares?” is a taste of their upcoming second album, and if recent singles like “Rush” and “Grow Up” are any indication, we’re in for something special.
Why “Who Cares?” Matters in Today’s Music Scene
Synthpop is having a moment, with artists like The Weeknd and Dua Lipa bringing 80s-inspired sounds back to the charts. But CATBEAR’s take feels fresh because it’s so personal. In a world obsessed with curated perfection, “Who Cares?” is a reminder to embrace the messiness of being human. It’s a track that fits right into 2025’s wave of emotionally driven pop but stands out for its DIY ethos and introspective edge.
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Final Thoughts: Stream “Who Cares?” and Join the CATBEAR Hype
“Who Cares?” is CATBEAR at their best—bold, vulnerable, and impossible to ignore. Whether you’re a synthpop stan or just love music that feels real, this track deserves a spin. Catch it when it drops on May 23, 2025, and if you’re in the UK, grab tickets to see them live in London or Brighton. I’m already counting down to their second album.
What do you think of “Who Cares?”? Drop your thoughts in the comments and let’s chat about this banger!