Brooklyn-based queer artist Nathalie Miller explores the early stages of a new relationship on ‘teeth filed down’, the first glimpse of debut album i’d like to think you saved me, due November 13. Built around the unusual image of teeth being gradually worn down over time, Miller considers the privilege of discovering who somebody was before you met them, holding their past experiences alongside the person standing in front of you now.
Strummed acoustic guitar introduces the track alongside Miller’s wistful, slightly dreamy vocal, with accordion quietly colouring the background. From there, ‘teeth filed down’ gradually expands: bright electric guitar provides flashes of sonic glitter, while piano and light percussion slowly enter around its driving rhythm. The chorus opens up further through layered vocals, lending Miller’s indie-pop a subtle celestial glow without losing its intimacy.
That gradual build beautifully complements the song’s blossoming affection, as though those feelings are intensifying almost unnoticed. The accompanying video mirrors that progression, beginning with softly framed, near-still bedroom scenes and close-ups before introducing more movement as Miller begins to dance a little. Its dreamy pinks, reds and blues give the whole thing the feel of a romantic coming-of-age film. Warm, nostalgic and quietly lovestruck, ‘teeth filed down’ captures the way affection can creep up on you piece by piece.
