A Review of AELEEN’s ‘Misfits’ - Turning Outsider Energy Into a Cinematic Pop-Rock Uprising

The band’s latest release isn’t just a song – it’s a widescreen rebellion where anthemic hooks meet unfiltered honesty.

Imagine a neon-lit underpass at dusk: the sound of trainers on concrete, a chorus of voices rising against the hum of the city. That’s the world AELEEN conjure with ‘Misfits’, their newest single and accompanying video. Rather than delivering another polished slice of indie-pop, the band have built something that feels alive – a rallying cry for outsiders disguised as a pop-rock anthem.

"In the video we wanted to keep things raw and honest, without polish or distraction, to let the emotion drive everything. It’s about intensity, movement and energy — showing the struggle but also the confidence that comes from embracing who you are and not trying to fit into someone else’s frame.”

Musically, ‘Misfits’ trades in contrasts. Its opening guitar riff snarls like a garage band warm-up before the synths slide in, sleek and shimmering. Drums snap like camera shutters, and at the centre is a vocal performance that’s as raw as it is resolute – an intimate confession exploding into a chorus built for festival fields.

“Misfits was born from an instrumental and musical exploration. I wanted to give the song an offbeat tone while keeping a strong social critique, true to AELEEN’s spirit,” explains vocalist Catie. “The theme touches on human nature, hypocrisy, appearances, and above all the idea of daring to be yourself and walking your own path. It’s an anthem for those who proudly embrace their difference.”

The lyrics reject conformity without posturing. AELEEN don’t glorify alienation; they explore it, turning difference into solidarity. That spirit carries into the video, which splices striking close-ups with cinematic wides – part underground movement, part daydream. It’s less a promo clip than a manifesto in motion.

What makes ‘Misfits’ stand out is its refusal to play it safe. It’s not nostalgia for outsider anthems gone by, nor a trendy attempt at rebellion. AELEEN have carved out something bigger: a piece of pop-rock that feels like a living, breathing community. This is music you don’t just hear; you join.

FOLLOW AELEEN: Facebook | Instagram | YouTube | TikTok | Spotify | Website

Photos by Aksinia Avelur

AELEEN will support the release with live dates, including:

• 27/09 – Socorro (Porto), Paws & Claws Fest

• 11/10 – Buraco Pub (Ovar)

• 17/10 – Wish You Were Here Pub (Porto)

• 06/12 - RCA Club (Lisbon)