For the last 18 months, Loyle Carner has been relatively quiet, at least in terms of releasing music. In every other respect, he’s been busier than ever, touring across the UK and Europe, and making moves in the culinary world. By the looks of his Instagram, he’s also spent a considerable amount of time in the studio, and now we have some of the first fruits of that labour with “Hate”, his first solo release since 2020’s “Yesterday”.
Produced by Kwes., Earl Saga, and Nick Mills, it’s a tightly-wound track that reflects the myriad thoughts, worries, and irritations that seem to have been bubbling away beneath the surface. From dismissive teachers to internalised racism and the pervasive notion that the only careers options for young Black kids are football and music.
Sharing his own thoughts behind the track, Loyle says: “One of the few songs made from a hateful place. I was angry at the world, frightened and overwhelmed. It’s unfiltered. Really just a stream of consciousness that builds to an understanding that hate is rooted in fear. It reminds me of times the red mist takes over, and how alone you feel when the red mist passes. Arrogant and self-righteous but at the same time vulnerable and somber. I listen to this one in my car, at night. Especially after an argument when you need to get space and take a breath.”
He’s also directed a set of visuals for the track that put him in the driving seat of a car filled with several copies of himself, all trying to wrestle away the wheel of the car. Tense, chaotic, and just a little claustrophobic, it’s a simple but effective concept that amplifies the track’s taut energy.
Hit play on the video above and then make sure you add “Hate” to all your playlists.