Alright, let's dive right in—there's something incredibly relatable about those first couple of weeks after a breakup when everything feels suspended in this weird, quiet storm. Sleepless nights scrolling through old photos, endless cups of tea, and that tiny flicker of hope that maybe, just maybe, you're already starting to heal. That's exactly the vibe MDWS nails on his latest single, "12 Days".
If you're into dance pop, indie pop, or alt pop that hits you right in the feels without going overboard, this track is going to resonate hard. MDWS (pronounced "Meadows") is the project of Callum Meadows, the New Zealand-raised, Australia-based producer, singer/songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist who's built a sound that's equal parts hypnotic and soulful. He grew up in a musical household on New Zealand's North Island, dabbled in folk earlier on, then dove headfirst into electronic music after moving to Australia. Inspired by artists like Joji, Frank Ocean, and James Blake, he quit his construction job to study production properly. Those late nights in his Gold Coast bedroom studio became the birthplace of MDWS, and his breakout single "Circles" blew up with over 6 million Spotify streams—proof that processing hidden emotions through music can connect on a massive level.
"12 Days" feels like a natural evolution of that introspective style. The production is restrained and modern—think subtle, lush soundscapes that wrap around the track like a cozy blanket on a rough night. It's not bombastic dance pop; instead, it leans into that alt pop edge with minimalist beats and atmospheric layers that let the emotional weight breathe. The song captures the quiet chaos of post-breakup life so accurately: those small routines that keep you going, the internal bargaining, and the strange way heartbreak and healing can sit side by side. Callum's sultry, haunting vocals add this worn-in intimacy that makes the whole thing feel personal, like a late-night confession set to music.
In the broader scene, indie pop and alt pop are thriving right now with artists blending emotional honesty and polished production—think the rise of alt-z vibes, hybrid sounds, and tracks that feel cinematic yet intimate. We're seeing more music that bridges vulnerability with electronic elements, much like what Joji and Frank Ocean pioneered, but with fresh 2026 twists. "12 Days" fits perfectly into that wave, offering a snapshot of emotional limbo that's both cathartic and understated. It's the kind of song you loop when you're processing your own stuff, or when you just need something that understands without saying too much.
Callum's journey from folk roots to electronic soul-searching shows how powerful it is when artists use music as therapy. "Circles" proved he can craft relatable heartbreak anthems that rack up millions of streams, and "12 Days" builds on that with even more maturity and nuance. If you're a fan of moody, atmospheric pop that prioritizes feeling over flash, add this one to your playlist immediately.
What do you think—does "12 Days" capture that post-breakup haze for you? Drop your thoughts in the comments; I'd love to hear if this track hits home or if you've got similar favorites right now!
