Each Measure Feature: Rasha Jay

FEATURE

Rasha Jay’s brand new single “SAY” is a raw and emotional rock track that captures the push and pull of a tumultuous relationship. Out just last week, the single is Jay’s first release since 2022 and is a collaboration with co-producers No New Lovers in LA, guitarist Liza Light, and drummer Huan Walker. Prior to her hiatus, Jay had already amassed a sizable discography (including an EP and two albums). Now, “SAY” carries itself with the confidence of a track that has something fresh to express.

The song feels bare but bold, opening with only a sparse baseline, a pounding drum, and Jay’s slight distorted but otherwise untouched vocals. It’s not until the the start of the chorus that an electric guitar creeps into the mix. There is, however, an intensity right from the start. Jay sings “jewelry on the mattress, vinyl broken too.” These are the first of a collection of images depicting a cycle of agonizing conflict and the deep desire that brings two people crashing back together.

When she reaches the chorus, Jay calls out “say what you want but you better be ready to run.” By now the instrumental has filled out and the energy is frenetic. This could be the soundtrack to a fight smashing through every room in the house as someone haphazardly gathers their belongings. Maybe it’s the rumination of someone sprinting through the streets in a rage.

Then, at the bridge, Jay catches her breath. The electric guitar falls away and she repeats, “it won’t stop, this aching desire to tear you apart.” Is it attraction or disgust? Whatever it is, it’s drawing her back towards this person. She launches herself full speed into her refrain from the chorus and as the song comes to it’s culmination, the attraction and the fury merge. The finish is full of catharsis and power. “SAY” is a track that dares the listener to feel something.

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