Afternoon Bike Ride today share a brand new single “Oh No!” that dives deep into navigating pleasantries while drowning in one’s own thoughts. With a delicate balance of anxiety and grief, “Oh No!” is a sonic exploration of what it feels like to be approached when you’re unraveling in your own mind.

“Oh No!” was inspired by lead singer Lia Kurihara’s isolated and reflective moments on metro rides after visiting an ill family member. “This song captures the sheer terror of facing an acquaintance who wants to chit chat when you’re panicking on the inside,” explains Lia. “I often take the subway now that my dad lives in memory care and these metro rides backdrop my processing of grief, frustration and anxiety around visiting him. I’ve cried and had panic attacks many times over during the ride and I’ve had to hide my face from acquaintances and strangers alike. As a prisoner of my own politeness, my worst nightmare is getting spotted during one of these moments.”

Despite the lyrical melancholia, the yin and yang of vocals and instrumentation “Oh No!” is a cathartic journey, complete with a reprise both lofi and ambient, stripped down and bare. If you’re not listening closely, it might brighten your mood. If you begin to follow along to the lines, you might relate, or at the very least, you will be sure to empathize.

Afternoon Bike Ride includes Lia Kurihara, Éloi Le Blanc-Ringuette and David Tanton, The Montreal indie trio have released their well received LP Glossover in 2023. The three musicians work more and more tightly as a trio with each offering, splitting roles on guitar, vocals, percussion, and even mixing English and French.

Order “Oh No!” by Afternoon Bike Ride HERE