Best Ex announces debut album ‘With A Smile’ sharing lead single “I Promise To Ruin Your Life”

Indie-pop sensation Best Ex is gearing up to release her debut album With A Smile on October 6, via Iodine Recordings (US) and Alcopop! Records (UK and EU).

The lead single, “I Promise To Ruin Your Life”, captures the light-hearted excitement of innocent crushes and the hopefulness that accompanies new connections. Loveland's musical evolution is evident in her shift from energetic guitars to a blend of synths and acoustic elements, creating a distinctive indie-pop sound that resonates with emotional depth. The album's tracks explore various aspects of her experiences, including navigating relationships, embracing vulnerability, and finding joy amid life's challenges.

Her forthcoming album marks a significant transition for ex-Candy Hearts frontwoman Mariel Loveland, the creative force behind Best Ex. The album is a reflection of her personal growth and transformation during the tumultuous period of the pandemic. Loveland's journey is encapsulated in the album's themes of love, self-discovery, anxiety, and womanhood. Sharing her thoughts ahead of release Mariel Loveland said:

"I feel way more excited than nervous. To be totally honest, this is the only thing I have ever wanted. So many times, when I feel like I'm flailing around with no direction, the universe seems to give me exactly what I need. In this case, the month I was getting ready to think about recording a new single, Iodine Records randomly reached out to me and asked if I wanted to make an album. I honestly had been feeling like I may never get the opportunity to make a full length on my own—especially with how much the industry has changed since I made music with Candy Hearts. Of course, I said 'ABSOLUTELY YES.' It feels like the world is giving me a second chance, and I hope fans will too."

With A Smile is more than just an album; it's a narrative of Loveland's journey into adulthood, expressed through her unique musical lens. This collection of songs offers listeners an intimate glimpse into her life, marked by moments of introspection, growth, and newfound perspectives.

Pre-order With A Smile and watch the visualiser for “I Promise To Ruin Your Life”:

With A Smile Tracklist:

1. With a Smile

2. Tell Your Friends

3. Give Me a Break

4. Salt On Skin

5. I Promise To Ruin Your Life

6. Stay With Me

7. Die For You

8. Cut Me Out

9. What The Hell

10. Joyride (Glad You Found Me)

11. The End

12. Daylight

Best Ex is vocalist and multi instrumentalist Mariel Loveland.