We've written about Moby Rich before - they are an indie-pop duo from Los Angeles with a talent for innovative production and sharp melodic hooks. Multiplatinum hitmaker Bishop Briggs is a fan of their work, and reached out to propose a co-write. Thus "friends*" was born.

"friends*" blends a driving, electronic rhythm with a choppy pulse on the electric guitar, and moves to a big synth-bass riff for the chorus. Briggs' legendary voice blends with those of Maxwell Joseph and Connor Pledger, with a natural synergy that propels this edgy headbanger forward. Moving between distorted guitars and emotionally-charged screams, "friends*" confronts the raw frustration of a complex relationship, and channels that energy of awkwardness and indecision into a nihilistic party-anthem. This meeting-of-the-minds between a few of indie-pop's most exciting cross-genre, musical artisans describes the frustrating, yet beautiful, cycle of disappointment, hope, bliss, chaos, addiction, and love. Anyone who has had to navigate the high-stakes tightrope between friendship and physical connection will find something to love about this track. Moby Rich and Bishop Briggs are at the top of their game, and it shows.

I hate that I want to be more than friends
Sometimes, losing friends is alright

Bishop Briggs

Sarah Grace McLaughlin, better known as Bishop Briggs, is a British musician, singer, and songwriter. This song is featured on our Groovy Summer playlist.