In a video interview, Merton revealed that a former collaborator gave her an ultimatum, threatening to end their partnership if she worked with other producers. She described the situation as deeply personal, likening it to having "a gun to [her] head", and shared that it contributed to emotional strain during the album's creation.[2]
Rather than pulling from her distant past, Merton found inspiration directly in her present-day life — capturing moments full of familiarity and friction, comfort and anxiety. From the opening track "Loveback" to the cathartic closer "The Other Side", the album traces a visceral, emotionally charged journey. Reflecting on the release, Merton shared mixed feelings, saying she was happy the album was finally out, but nervous about how listeners would perceive it now that it was no longer hers alone.[3]
Singles
On 8 April 2021, the lead single "Vertigo" was released.[4] It was followed by two singles, "Hero" and "Island," which were both released on 9 September 2021.[5] Subsequent singles included "Same Team" on 4 March 2022,[6][7] "Blindside" on 7 April 2022,[8] and "Loveback" on 13 May 2022.[9]
AllMusic described S.I.D.E.S. as a lyrically existential and confrontational album shaped by the pandemic and personal turmoil. The review also noted its darker, more abrasive sound and emphasized Merton's full creative involvement across all tracks.[10]
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