Floating in the In-Between

With their latest single “terminal”, Ottawa indie-pop duo Wotts carve out a space that feels both intimate and expansive. Acting as the first glimpse into their upcoming EP COPE, the track captures the restless, uncertain haze of post-breakup emotions—those liminal stretches of time where clarity hasn’t arrived, but the weight of the past still lingers.

Produced by Jayem, who also provides vocals and multi-instrumental layers, “terminal” leans into Wotts’ roots while folding in a new R&B-infused polish. There’s an atmospheric groove that instantly brings to mind the lush textures of Tame Impala or the mellow swagger of Childish Gambino. Dreamy synths ripple through the mix, balanced by a bassline that keeps the song grounded, while Ricky 100’s guitar work adds a hazy shimmer that ties the whole mood together.

What makes “terminal” compelling is its restraint—it doesn’t try to resolve the tension it creates. Instead, it sits in that space of uneasiness, mirroring the stop-and-wait feeling of being stuck in emotional transit. The production is sleek yet human, polished yet tender, and it allows listeners to sink into the mood without rushing toward closure.

If Wotts’ last project FLANK! explored the raw edges of loss, “terminal” marks a pivot toward living with uncertainty. It’s the sound of a band confident enough to embrace vulnerability and let their grooves carry the story. A mesmerizing start to what promises to be a deeply resonant EP.