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Image via Lais
Toronto rapper/singer Lais’ “When The Mirror Cracks” fits comfortably on the spectrum of autumnal, introspective hip-hop that has become one of his city’s trademarks over the past few years. It takes on added weight as more than a transmission to a would-be lover or an ominous party anthem—”When The Mirror Cracks” is an investigation of self-worth.
“Metaphorically, it’s like if you knew your ugly ass broke the mirror, but you still kept telling yourself you’re beautiful anyway,” says Lais. “It could apply to any problem you’re facing, but, for me, this goes right to how I couldn’t come to terms with the fact that I became way too dependent on drugs. I knew I was falling down the rabbit hole the whole time and I hated myself for it, but at the same time…my ego was telling me I’m the man.”
It’s a heavy topic that Lais allows to live mostly in the fabric of the song, his condition existing as a suggestion, opening the song to the listener’s interpretation. One to play late at night when you’re alone.
