Lily Mao & The Resonators - "Seasick On The Subway"

Lily Mao and The Resonators’ latest single, “Seasick On The Subway,” describes an experience that I never thought I’d miss, but I do. After living in the New York City area my entire life, I grew tired of the filth and unreliable nature of the New York City subway system. However, I haven’t been on the train since the onset of the pandemic, and I’m loath to admit that I now kinda miss it. Maybe I actually just miss the normalcy of commuting underground amongst others, forgetting your headphones, getting a bit nauseous from reading, and hopping the turnstile at the Morgan L - three relatable experiences that Mao describes in the lyrics. Maybe it’s the camaraderie that comes with commiserating over how the MTA’s dysfunction fucks with our day-to-day lives, which Mao also semi-sarcastically alludes to in the chorus when she sings “vacation on the subway / what’s yours is mine.” Who knows! What I do know, though, is that this song makes me feel quite good. It rocks, and I know we all really miss rocking. Mao and The Resonators pepper the song with delectable guitar hooks, and the riffs in the chorus are particularly air guitar-inducing. Her ax work definitely stands out, but Mao’s voice is also killer. She projects a slightly restrained rage through her singing, but it’s the kind that allows the melody to shine through - so much so that you may find yourself smiling when she describes some of those more frustrating transit experiences. Other highlights include the bass steered second verse, which will definitely inspire clap alongs in the live setting once gigs return.

Stream the track below!

“Seasick On The Subway” is available on all streaming platforms. Keep up with Lily by following her on Instagram and liking her on Facebook.