Richard Green’s Ending up in the wrong way arrives as a carefully balanced piece of chillwave and alternative pop, one that places emotional clarity above spectacle and melodic intention above excess. Released on June 28th, 2024, the single fits naturally within Green’s wide-ranging artistic trajectory, while also standing on its own as a concise, intimate statement. Rooted in a personal experience from 2023, the track reflects on the quiet aftermath of a love story that did not resolve as hoped, translating that emotional residue into sound rather than overt narrative.
From the opening moments, rhythm plays a subtle but decisive role. The beat never pushes forward aggressively; instead, it breathes. Soft electronic pulses and restrained percussive elements create a gentle forward motion, suggesting time passing rather than urgency. This rhythmic approach allows the song to unfold gradually, leaving space for reflection. It is a structure that aligns closely with chillwave traditions, yet avoids nostalgia as a mere aesthetic trick. Here, the tempo and groove feel deliberate, almost cautious, as if the track itself is aware of the fragility of its subject matter.
Synth textures are central to the emotional architecture of Ending up in the wrong way. Warm pads form a continuous undercurrent, wrapping the listener in a muted, slightly hazy atmosphere. These sounds never dominate the mix; they function more like an emotional backdrop, reinforcing the sense of melancholy without becoming heavy-handed. The synth work leans toward melodic clarity rather than abstraction, supporting Green’s long-standing focus on expressiveness. There is a softness to the sound design that mirrors the theme of acceptance, even when the emotional content remains unresolved.
One of the defining elements of the track is its lead melody. Simple on the surface, it carries a weight that grows with each repetition. The melody does not rely on dramatic leaps or technical display; instead, it is shaped to linger, to stay with the listener after the track fades out. This approach reflects Green’s broader artistic philosophy, where melody consistently takes precedence over virtuosity. The result is a musical line that feels personal, almost conversational, reinforcing the introspective nature of the song.
The inclusion of saxophone and violin adds a distinctly human dimension to the production. The saxophone, appearing in the first part of the song, introduces a soulful tone that contrasts gently with the electronic framework. Its phrasing feels unforced and intimate, enhancing the sense of vulnerability. Later, the violin enters with a more cinematic presence, expanding the emotional scope without shifting the song into overt drama. These acoustic elements are integrated with care, avoiding any sense of separation between organic and electronic components.
Atmospherically, Ending up in the wrong way occupies a space between sweetness and sadness. There is nostalgia here, but it is not idealized. The track acknowledges loss while still finding beauty in the act of remembering. This duality is reflected in the arrangement, which remains light even when the emotional content deepens. The production choices support this balance, maintaining clarity and warmth throughout, and allowing the song to feel both introspective and accessible.
Within Richard Green’s broader catalogue, this single highlights his versatility and his ability to move fluidly across genres. Known for exploring everything from experimental electronic music to neoclassical and pop-oriented forms, Green channels those influences into a cohesive piece that feels focused rather than fragmented. Ending up in the wrong way may be part of the EP Illusions, but it functions equally well as a standalone release, encapsulating the melodic sensitivity and emotional depth that define his work.
As a release, it represents a high-quality contribution to the contemporary chillwave and alternative pop landscape. Its strength lies not in grand statements, but in restraint, nuance, and sincerity. For a webzine attentive to artistic consistency and emotional authenticity, hosting a review of Ending up in the wrong way feels entirely fitting, as the track quietly affirms Richard Green’s ability to translate lived experience into a refined and resonant musical form.