Cigarette Habit from Sober by Marmalade

Cigarette Habit explores the theme of substance abuse through the story of two friends entangled in addiction, trying but failing to support each other, and ultimately sinking together.

Unlike some of our other songs, Cigarette Habit didn’t start with a clear narrative. It evolved over time into a depiction of addiction and the struggle to overcome it. The song portrays two characters, each battling their own addiction and yearning to escape their circumstances, but lacking the support and willpower to help themselves or each other. The song shifts perspectives between the two characters, reflecting their mutual desperation and helplessness. With a melancholic tone, it conveys a sense of sorrow and a cry for help, while the chorus captures the feeling of disorientation and confusion that often accompanies addiction.

Tāmaki Makaurau-based five-piece Marmalade are a group of friends that write music in their living room. Swinging somewhere between clean-pop and indie-rock, Marmalade’s soaring female vocals and honest lyricism float above a steady musical backbone to create a juicy jar full of sounds.