Hey there, fellow music lovers—ever have one of those days (or weeks, or years) where the world feels like it's spinning out of control, but you're somehow still holding it together? Yeah, same. That's exactly the raw energy maxi malaise captures in their debut single "you're doing great," and honestly, it's hitting right in the feels right now.
This fresh project from Erin Accomando (you might know her as the powerhouse lead vocalist and co-founder of Detroit rock 'n' roll outfit ELSIE BINX) marks her first release under the maxi malaise name, and what a bold way to step into new territory. Dropped as part of the two-track "WHAT ARE WE DOING?" release earlier this month, "you're doing great" is a short, punchy burst of dark synthy upbeat pop that blends industrial edge with synthpop shimmer—think Nine Inch Nails' brooding intensity meeting Kesha's unapologetic pop flair. It's got that gritty, electronic drive layered with catchy, almost defiant hooks that make you want to crank it up while nodding along like, "Okay, world, I'm still here."
The track's production leans into those dark, pulsing synths and rhythmic beats that define industrial and darkwave influences, creating an atmosphere that's both moody and surprisingly energizing. It's not wallowing in despair; it's more like a late-night pep talk from a friend who gets it—the kind that acknowledges the overload of everything happening out there (global chaos, personal burnout, you name it) but reminds you that compartmentalizing to survive is a skill, and you're nailing it. Erin shared that this is exactly what she needed to hear herself, so she put it out there hoping others might feel the same lifeline. In a genre space where darkwave and gothic sounds are seeing a serious resurgence in 2026—think moody, synth-heavy tracks climbing playlists and festivals spotlighting fresh acts keeping the spirit alive—this feels timely and authentic.
Darkwave and synthpop have been bubbling back up big time lately, with new mixes, comebacks from vets, and underground scenes pushing hypnotic, emotional electronics that rebel against polished mainstream pop. Artists are blending those 80s/90s roots with modern production, and maxi malaise fits right in—dark but upbeat, introspective yet danceable. It's the perfect soundtrack for scrolling through the newsfeed, taking a deep breath, and pushing forward.
As a first release, this shows Erin's versatility beyond her rock roots with ELSIE BINX (where she's been belting out gritty pop-soul since 2015). She's excited to share more and even mentioned loving playlists that add her in—hint hint, curators! If you're into that sweet spot between industrial grit and synthpop catchiness, with a gothic/darkwave undercurrent, "you're doing great" is worth adding to your rotation immediately.
What do you think—does this kind of dark-yet-uplifting synthpop hit the spot for you right now? Drop your thoughts in the comments, share your go-to tracks for tough times, or tag a friend who needs this reminder. Let's keep the conversation going!
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