‘Social Skills’ is a restrained but pointed second single from Istanbul-based artist Atomic Cherry. Following the dreamier alt-pop of ‘Somewhere in Between’, this new track moves into darker alternative hip-hop and neo-soul territory, using a moodier backdrop to explore people-pleasing, social performance and the pressure to appear comfortable in environments that don’t necessarily feel natural.
Throughout, Atomic Cherry focuses on the tension between authenticity and acceptance, particularly the way repeated efforts to fit in can gradually become a form of self-erasure. But instead of presenting that conflict as dramatic rebellion, the track stays closer to the quieter frustration of recognising how much energy has been spent adapting to other people’s expectations.
The vocal remains intimate and direct, while the production introduces a sharper edge without overwhelming the writing. Compared with the softer atmosphere of the debut single, ‘Social Skills’ feels more focused and more willing to sit with discomfort.
There’s also a clear sense of independence behind the release. Atomic Cherry writes, performs, records, produces, mixes and masters the material herself, and that level of control suits a song concerned with questioning external expectations.
As the second track from her forthcoming EP, ‘Social Skills’ broadens the project without making an abrupt stylistic break. It suggests an artist that is still defining the boundaries of her sound, but already has a consistent interest in emotional contradiction and self-examination.