The Beths – Straight Line Was A Lie

The Beths know how to open an album. “Straight Line Was A Lie,” the title track from their upcoming Anti- Records release, hits with the same opener energy as “Expert In A Dying Field” did on their last record. It’s another perfect example of why Elizabeth Stokes became an indie rock star—gold-plated hooks wrapped around relatable lyrics about personal growth that isn’t actually growth.

The track tackles that frustrating cycle where you think you’re moving forward but really just going in circles. Stokes sings about trying to get better, only to end up back where she started. Her bandmates—Pearce, Benjamin Sinclair, and Tristan Deck—provide those lovely harmonies.

Jonathan Pearce produced with Michael Howell assisting, while Bevan Smith handled mixing duties. The result sounds like classic Beths: power-pop that hits hard but feels warm, with every element sitting exactly where it should.

“Straight Line Was A Lie” comes out August 29, giving fans one last taste before the full album drops. If this opener sets the tone, the Beths haven’t lost their touch.