Holly Humberstone Single Review: ‘Cruel World’

The English Singer Songwriter explores the emotional contradictions of Long Distance on her latest track

Last Friday, English artist Holly Humberstone released Cruel World, the title track from her upcoming album, as the third single of the current rollout. The laid-back track sees Humberstone yearning for her long-distance love.

Humberstone employs her usual diaristic and observational lyricism to tremendous effect. She has a true knack for immersing the listener into her feelings and world. “And everybody’s getting close, taking off each other’s clothes, I wonder where you are tonight,” Humberstone sings as she finds herself surrounded by people, but not the one person she truly wants. This relationship is both a source of immense joy and pain, as circumstances keep lovers apart. The way she illustrates the emotional contradictions of long-distance romance is where this track really shines.

For this track, Humberstone leans into a more upbeat tone than usual. The laid-back and plucky instrumentation does the job, although it can at times feel rather unremarkable, especially when stood next to her previous two singles. This easy listening fails to reach the emotional highs of To Love Somebody or the gothic grandiosity of Die Happy, but is ultimately inoffensive.

While this track further affirms Humberstone’s lyrical and storytelling talents, it feels like the weakest of the three singles to date. But even at her weakest, Humberstone still turns in a catchy tune with emotional depth I’m sure will resonate with many.