Music about romance, heartbreak, and relationships are in constant demand. The universal and yet deeply subjective experience of being in a relationship creates an endless desire for musical exploration into the nuances of human connection.

Steven Rogers, also known as JYRICE, explores complexities surrounding relationships in the title track of his recently released EP “Again”.

According to Rogers, “Again” examines the “loneliness felt from an unhealthy relationship”. This emotionally heavy topic is tonally conveyed from the beginning of the song as a soft and thoughtful piano melody leads before all other instruments and vocals.

Rogers’ simple, yet vivid lyrics display images associated with pain and helplessness. The metaphor of being stabbed is particularly central to the song. Rogers’ describes “laying on the ground” with “no one here to pull the knife out”, and maintains this metaphor throughout the track, adding after these lines that “It hurts,it stings/ I want to scream/ but I’m just bleeding out right now”. The obvious pain associated with being stabbed is displayed through this metaphor, but beyond that, there is a feeling of vulnerability that pervades these lines.

These violent and dark images sharply contrast with the soft and heartfelt piano melody and the light and subtle strings. This contrast displays the confusion and frustration that may be felt from understanding that staying in an unhealthy relationship will only lead to more pain, but being unwilling or unable to leave.

The chorus strengthens this commentary. Immediately after the description of pain and helplessness, Rogers’ adds the lines “waiting for you to say those words you said to me again”. The chorus features the repetition of the word “again” multiple times which underlines the repetitiveness and helplessness of being completely emotionally dependent on another person. Although the pain and toxicity of this relationship is clear, the feeling of being stuck in the cyclical torment of the relationship is present as well.

At the end of the track, the soulful piano melody cuts out, leaving only percussion. This drum beat, which mirrors the rhythm of a heart beat, allows for a momentary meditation on the irrationality of love