Last time we spoke with Luke Wes, he told us he was changing direction creatively. Now he’s back with his second EP, NO SYMPATHY FOR A CHEETAH, a project rooted in self-reflection.
Two days before its release, we caught up with him to talk about the title, the cheetah as a symbol, and why the track order matters.
Here’s what he had to say.
What is NO SYMPATHY FOR A CHEETAH about?
It’s hard to put into a few words, but it’s mostly about self-reflection and introspection. That moment after a breakup or some chaos where you’re alone with yourself, sitting in that stillness. It’s in those moments that I start to notice my flaws and come to terms with them. The EP is about the softness and peace that comes with that process.
Why did you choose the title NO SYMPATHY FOR A CHEETAH?
The cheetah is a symbol. There’s some wordplay there that I’d rather leave for people to figure out, but the animal itself represents the adult version of me, especially the flawed one. I even mention the title on a couple of tracks.
You’ve described the cheetah as your adult self. What does that actually mean to you?
I constantly feel like I’m being judged by the kid version of me, the one who had all these ideas about the kind of adult I’d become. But life takes its own turns and you don’t always end up where you thought you would. I’m just trying to look out for that kid and be a better adult.
How intentional was the cover art?
It was 100% intentional, even down to the specific shades of each color. I’m a very annoying creative, honestly. That’s why I’m always thankful for the people I work with, because they understand how detailed I get.
Fun fact: the cover was actually inspired by a Winnie the Pooh illustration.
Is the EP meant to be listened to in order?
Kind of, yeah. I didn’t really plan it like that, but the track order ended up making sense on its own. The first song is more that initial self-observation, like an “I’m a piece of shit” type of moment, and the last one is more about coming to terms with that and realizing you’ll probably circle back to where you were. I want people to have their own interpretations though, so I don’t want to label what everything means. I just want people to listen to it in order. Please don’t shuffle this shit.
Did you record more songs than what ended up on the EP?
I did write some other stuff, but nothing that felt special enough to even leave my voice memos. The songs that made it to the EP felt like peak Luke Wes. They sounded different and fresh, but also very true to what I was feeling at the time. In terms of composition, melodies, flows, overall execution. I’ve never been this sharp.
Do you see this EP as opening something new or closing a chapter?
Opening for sure. There’s more to explore in this era.
How are you feeling knowing the EP is about to be out?
Screaming, vomiting, crying, peeing, dancing, jumping.
Pre-save NO SYMPATHY FOR A CHEETAH here.
