Rising indie-pop artist Catlea is back with Why Them?, the latest release from their much-anticipated album Language Barrier, out March 6, 2025. Packed with infectious hooks, pulsing rhythms, and sensual vocals, Why Them? is a genre-bending anthem of self-reliance, inner conflict, and the messy pursuit of identity. The track doesn’t just ask questions—it demands answers, pulling listeners into a whirlwind of passion, frustration, and ultimate self-empowerment.
From the very first lines, Catlea sets the stage for an intimate yet electrifying journey. Why Them? delves into the push-and-pull of relationships, self-doubt, and the struggle to understand one’s desires before committing to someone else. It’s a universal feeling—being caught in the whirlwind of attraction while simultaneously grappling with the realization that you haven’t even figured yourself out yet. This tension fuels the track’s emotional core, making it both relatable and deeply personal.
Recorded and produced across two continents—Cincinnati and Barcelona—the single carries an air of global influence while remaining rooted in the personal storytelling that defines Catlea’s artistry. The fusion of indie-pop and alternative rock elements creates an immersive soundscape that mirrors the song’s lyrical themes: desire clashing with uncertainty, empowerment rising from the ashes of self-doubt.
As Why Them? progresses, the intensity builds. A haunting, toned-down guitar in the bridge subtly echoes Catlea’s internal questioning, only to be overtaken by an eruption of power chords, pounding drums, and impassioned vocals. It’s a moment of catharsis, symbolizing the reclamation of personal power in defiance of external pressures.
This is the heart of the song—an admission of vulnerability and growth, wrapped in the pulsating energy of indie pop. Catlea’s delivery is equal parts raw and confident, making it impossible not to get caught up in the emotional rollercoaster.
As the fifth release from Language Barrier, Why Them? fits seamlessly into the album’s overarching themes of communication, miscommunication, and the struggle to understand both ourselves and those around us. Catlea has been praised for their ability to capture the intricacies of human relationships—whether it’s the longing for connection, the tension between expectations and reality, or the bittersweet realization that sometimes the best thing we can do is walk away.
With each new release, Language Barrier continues to solidify itself as a concept album that resonates on multiple levels. While Why Them? explores the internal battle of self-discovery, previous tracks have tackled love, heartbreak, and empowerment, creating a dynamic listening experience that evolves with each song.
Catlea’s bold and expressive songwriting has already garnered attention from curators and listeners alike. Their ability to blend deeply personal lyrics with polished, radio-ready production makes Why Them? a track that fits just as easily on a late-night drive playlist as it does in a club setting. The song embodies that rare quality of being introspective while still making you want to move—a testament to Catlea’s ability to craft music that speaks both to the heart and the body.
As Language Barrier nears its full release, Why Them? stands as a defining moment within the project—a song that not only questions but also reclaims. By the time the final notes fade, there’s no doubt left. The song isn’t just about questioning who we give our energy to; it’s about realizing that the most important person to choose is yourself.
Catlea’s Why Them? is now streaming on all major platforms. Stay tuned for the full release of Language Barrier.
