Local Music: Dead Ex Girlfriends – I am Not the One

Saskatoon’s Dead Ex Girlfriends follow up their 2024 debut with a searing new single, ‘I Am Not The One,’ just in time for Valentine’s Day.

Described by the band as a love letter to every guy who’s, “never opened up like this before,” the track tackles the all too common trope of a partner expected to play therapist for someone unwilling to take the appropriate steps to heal, grow, and actively participate in their relationship.

Musically, this new single builds upon the mid-tempo, hardcore-inspired skeletons heard in their debut. Chunky and hard-hitting drums, angry palm-muted guitars and an all around essence of pent up rage finding an outlet will make this track appeal to those on both sides of the hardcore/punk aisle. On this latest release, the band feels bolder, more resolute in their choices, and tighter as a unit. While overall, this song feels like a step forward for the band, it’s worth noting that ‘I Am Not The One” especially showcases the melodic vocals of Vada Mae in a way that ‘Sober Up’ didn’t.

The band has once again teamed up with Stacy Tinant (The Moon Runners, Pontiex) for production/mixing as well as Chris Dimas for mastering on this single.

When asked about the recording and production process behind the new single, Vada said, “We’ve been writing and holding our music very close to our heart for a while now and it’s been such a fun process to work alongside Stacy for our first few releases. He’s so talented and understands our vision as Dead Ex Girlfriends so intricately. In a way, releasing this music feels like allowing y’all to read our personal diary.”

‘I Am Not The One’ is available everywhere February 14th.

Tags: dead ex girlfriends, saskatoon, saskatoon music, yxe, yxe music

About the Author

Matt Stinn is a Saskatoon-based award winning producer, touring musician, and cat lover. When not working in the music industry he hones his skills as an amateur writer and professional little spoon.