Heartworms tells us about dance-driven single ‘Guess I’m Stuck In The Dark’ and tackling “uncertainty and dark humour” on new album

London-based artist Heartworms has introduced her latest single, ‘Guess I’m Stuck In The Dark’, marking a dynamic shift toward more danceable sounds while maintaining her signature gothic rock edge. This release serves as the initial glimpse into her eagerly awaited second album, set to follow the critical success of her 2025 debut, ‘Glutton For Punishment’.

The single blends indie noir elements with a groove-driven rhythm, incorporating shimmering, disco-inspired textures that contrast with the darker lyrical content. Thematically, the track delves into the mental distortions that arise during moments of insecurity, encapsulating feelings of vulnerability and the ironic attempt to find levity amidst internal struggles. The creative process behind the song was notably influenced by an unexpected power outage experienced by lead vocalist Jojo Orme during a writing session in Italy, a moment that sparked a stream-of-consciousness exploration of fear and self-doubt.

Upon returning to London, Orme collaborated with producer Dan Carey, who refined the track by stripping it down to its core, emphasizing emotional rawness in the arrangement. Orme described how the songwriting unfolded subconsciously, revealing layers of meaning over time, particularly related to her challenges with confidence and self-acceptance. The song encapsulates the tension between striving for personal greatness while resisting external validation.

This release coincides with Heartworms’ evolving stage persona and aesthetic. The artist recently debuted new material through intimate performances in Italy, adopting a distinct look that diverges from her previous all-black attire. Embracing tailored wool suits and a fresh approach to instrumentation, including a Fender Telecaster guitar she had previously been hesitant to use onstage, Orme is redefining her visual identity to complement the sonic direction of her new work.

Heartworms’ forthcoming album promises a departure from rigid genre boundaries, as Orme remains committed to creative freedom, seamlessly blending dance, hip-hop, and gothic influences. Despite the eclectic soundscape, the album is unified by lyrical themes centered around uncertainty, dark humor, and emotional introspection. Orme indicates that rather than following a single narrative character, the album traverses multiple emotional landscapes, reflecting the fluidity of her artistic vision.

Personal experiences have significantly shaped the artist’s current perspective and songwriting. Since her debut, Orme has undergone transformative life changes, including a recent separation following marriage, and ongoing reflections on faith and belief systems. These developments have deeply influenced her lyrical content and artistic approach, which she describes as a means of processing and coping rather than a pursuit of a predetermined identity.

As she prepares for an extensive European and UK tour, Heartworms will support notable acts Bloc Party and Interpol, the latter of which holds particular significance for Orme. She acknowledges the influence Interpol’s music has had on her own compositions, adding a layer of inspiration to her performances. Past opportunities to open for artists like St Vincent and Sleaford Mods have provided valuable experience, though Orme emphasizes a grounded attitude toward performing, focusing on the immediacy of each moment rather than the scale of venues.

The artist’s growing profile is further highlighted by her connection with acclaimed video game creator Hideo Kojima, a fan who shares her appreciation for bands such as Joy Division. This cross-disciplinary recognition underscores Heartworms’ expanding cultural reach beyond music circles.

‘Guess I’m Stuck In The Dark’ is currently available, with Heartworms scheduled to headline a London show at The Windmill in Brixton on October 28, followed by appearances at the Dark Arts Festival in Leeds and Iceland Airwaves in Reykjavik. Her touring commitments with Bloc Party and Interpol commence in Berlin on November 11, signaling a significant phase in her career as she introduces her new artistic chapter to wider audiences.

With her sophomore album nearing completion, Heartworms continues to navigate personal and artistic evolution, blending introspective themes with genre-defying sounds. The forthcoming record is poised to deepen her exploration of darkness and humor, offering listeners a multifaceted experience that challenges conventions and embraces vulnerability.