“Badmouth” by Al Costelloe is a moving ballad that captures the emotions of a toxic breakup, making it easy for listeners to connect with its heartfelt message. With a timeless sound, the song blends a slow-paced, introspective melody reminiscent of Mazzy Star with a steady, ‘70s-style beat and acoustic guitar that give it momentum. The standout feature is the deep bass line, paired beautifully with melancholic vocals. Though minimal in instrumentation, the track adds airy synths and backing vocals at just the right moments, lifting the arrangement and transforming it into a cigarette-lighter anthem for the heartbroken.
The lyrics offer a witty and clever take on the harsh words of an ex-partner, with a playful, tongue-in-cheek delivery that adds charm. Ultimately, “Badmouth” serves as a reminder of the resilience of the human spirit, showing that we can rise above the hurtful words of others.