Writing, directing, singing, drumming, dancing… what can’t Ashton Irwin do? On September 23rd, 5 Seconds of Summer’s drummer Ashton Irwin announced that he will be releasing his first solo album Superbloom, along with a song and music video for the debut single “Skinny Skinny” that came out that evening. In an email sent out to fans, Irwin said that this album will tackle ideas of self-discipline, self-realization, and self-belief. He stated that it will cover a lot of ground conceptually that he hopes the fans connect with. This idea is evident in the “Skinny Skinny”, which talks about body dysmorphia, and fans are definitely relating to it.
One of the things many 5SOS fans, including myself, have always admired about Ashton is his wisdom and way with words. So it was no surprise that his lyrics were incredibly powerful. In an Instagram post from the release day, Irwin wrote that “When writing “Skinny Skinny” I first thought of myself, and many other young peoples struggles with body image and particularly body dysmorphia. It’s something I’ve never confronted in a creative form and I am feeling strong in saying “Skinny Skinny” goes directly to that painful place in my mind.” While many lyrics Irwin has written for 5SOS have been very personal and touching, it’s safe to say that this song reaches a whole new level. A refrain in the pre-chorus goes “I want to eat, I wanna stay thin, I wanna dance but I gotta stay in” and, especially when partnered with the contemporary dance Ashton does in the music video, it’s very striking. To be so open about a topic that is often taboo, especially in men, is such a nice change to see. It’s no secret that Irwin is a great lyricist, and he’s really showing off his skills now.
If the lyrics weren’t beautiful enough, the music video is truly a work of art. Filled with powerful imagery, it features Irwin doing a dance choreographed by Jessica Richens that is so symbolic of struggling with your inner demons. In one of the most meaningful moments in the music video, Irwin is surrounded by different phrases like “flawed,” “too skinny,” and “too many carbs,” all while the mirrors behind him depict his face slightly distorted. This moment describes what it’s like to not know what you look like and not be able to recognize yourself because of how much you hear from the people around you. My personal favorite part of the music video is when Irwin sings directly into the camera and then turns around and starts to destroy the mirrors behind him. Not only was this powerful for Irwin himself, but also everyone watching. I think that we all need a reminder every now and then to not care so much about what we see in the mirror, and I think this was the perfect way to do it. To make the video even better, it was co-directed by Ashton, which is only his second time co-directing a video. The first time was when he worked alongside Andy Deluca, for 5 Seconds of Summer’s “Valentine” music video. And based off of those two, I’m hoping we get to see more videos from his direction soon.
Not only has Ashton Irwin released his first solo work ever, but he has also opened up a whole conversation about body dysmorphia, especially in men. The second single called “Have U Found What Ur Looking For?” was released on October 1st. The full album, Superbloom, will be out on October 23rd. I think it’s pretty safe to say that this whole album will be incredible, and I can’t wait to hear more.
You can presave Ashton Irwin’s debut album Superbloom here.