8485 marks her return in 2025 with the release of her new single, ‘G.I.R.L.’, a collaboration with alt-rap icon Danny Brown.
At first glance, the partnership might seem unexpected, but both artists share a penchant for sonic experimentation and a disdain for conventional genre boundaries.
With its glitchy, digitally deconstructed production and 8485’s sharp, acerbic vocal delivery, the track pulses with chaotic energy. It’s a dance-pop anthem for the modern, very-online era.
The production, courtesy of Doin’ Fine, morphs and warps throughout, creating an ever-evolving sonic landscape.
‘G.I.R.L.’ embodies the kind of carefree, messy rebellion that defined blog-era pop music, while simultaneously propelling it into something fresh and irresistibly addictive.
As 8485 describes it, the track is “a song for logging off and having fun,” a playful response to those who would rather keep us connected to the grind of online life.
‘G.I.R.L.’ serves as a throwback to the mid-00s era of Uffie, CSS, and Justice, combining the hedonistic vibe of that time with a modern twist.
Originally conceived as a demo during a session in Austin with Brown, the track took shape when the rapper added his own verse, complementing 8485’s lyrics and enhancing the song’s already raw energy.
8485’s career, marked by a catalogue that includes collaborations with Wicca Phase Springs Eternal, Fish Narc, Anamanaguchi, and others, has solidified her as a recognisable voice in the underground music scene.
Editors’ Picks
- ★★★★☆ Peach Pit at Manchester Academy review | There’s power in the sadness
Canadian indie crew Peach Pit combine melancholy and mischief in a magnetic Manchester Academy set. - How long should a gig really be?
As concerts grow longer and ticket prices soar, is value for money distorting what live performance should be? - ★★★★☆ The Crux review | Joe Keery balances reflection and roleplay on third Djo album
Joe Keery leans into limbo with The Crux, a psychedelic and reflective album that blurs fiction and self, nostalgia and futurism. - R.E.M., The Smiths, Nirvana – who might reunite next?
If Oasis is possible, is anyone off the table? Here are the reunions we’d love to see next. - ★★★★☆ Glory review | Perfume Genius tones down the distortion, turns up the intimacy
The new Perfume Genius album shows restraint, intimacy, and moments of heart-wrenching clarity. - Why, 20 years later, Dig! is still the ultimate music doc
As Dig! returns to cinemas, we revisit the chaos, creativity and collapse at the heart of a cult classic. - Overwhelmed? A guide to music’s most daunting discographies
Some bands release albums faster than you can listen to them. Here’s how to navigate the most overwhelming discographies in music history, from Johnny Cash to King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard.
Keep up to date with the best in UK music by following us on Instagram: @whynowworld and on Twitter/X: @whynowworld
