Wicked Habit
Ashton Irwin
The Allure and Destruction of a 'Wicked Habit'
Ashton Irwin's song 'Wicked Habit' delves into the intoxicating and often destructive nature of addiction, whether it be to a person, substance, or feeling. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a love that is both irresistible and harmful, likening it to a drug that courses through the veins. The repeated references to needing a 'hit' and the plea to not be 'dried out' underscore the dependency and the lengths to which one might go to sustain this toxic attachment.
The imagery of the 'California Sun beam radiatin' through me' juxtaposed with the 'poisonous addiction' creates a stark contrast between the warmth and light of love and the dark, consuming nature of addiction. This duality is further emphasized by the metaphor of the 'other side of the Moon,' suggesting an elusive, almost mystical quality to the object of the singer's obsession. The lyrics convey a sense of urgency and desperation, as the singer is willing to give 'all my money and my lifeblood too' for just a moment of connection.
Musically, Ashton Irwin is known for his work as the drummer of the pop-rock band 5 Seconds of Summer, but 'Wicked Habit' showcases a more personal and introspective side of his artistry. The song's repetitive structure and haunting melody mirror the cyclical nature of addiction, where the highs are fleeting and the lows are devastating. The phrase 'such a wicked habit' is repeated like a mantra, reinforcing the inescapable grip of this destructive love. Through this song, Irwin captures the complex emotions of longing, dependency, and the struggle to break free from a harmful cycle.