Monstrosa Releases Genre-Defying Single “778”

Toronto-based alternative act Monstrosa unveils their emotionally gripping and genre-defying new single, “778,” a guitar-driven alt-rock anthem that explores themes of self-empowerment, mental health, and resilience. Catchy yet heavy, the track encapsulates Monstrosa’s signature blend of metal riffs, emo rock, and melodic vocals while showcasing frontwoman Lauren Pryce’s deeply personal lyricism.

“778” serves as a reflection of Pryce’s transformative journey through her first experience living alone. The track explores the duality of navigating external dangers and internal battles, turning her initial frustrations into an introspective dialogue about self-love, artistry, and perseverance.

Commenting on the song, Pryce states:

“‘778’ was the address of my first apartment, and the song represents my journey to find safety within myself. While on the surface it’s about being followed home late at night, it’s also about the dissonant experience of being both your biggest critic and biggest fan as an artist. I had to learn to love my music and, by extension, myself—a process that felt both liberating and terrifying. Working with (renowned indie game composer) Mark Sparling was a dream. During the pandemic, we bonded over our shared love of metal and curated playlists for each other. When it came time to record ‘778,’ I knew he’d help me take the song to its heaviest potential. He absolutely crushed it.”

The official music video for “778” marks Monstrosa’s first foray into visual storytelling. Directed by Tiffany Wice and featuring handmade masks by art director Brittany Rose, the 1970s-inspired horror aesthetic amplifies the song’s themes of self-confrontation and empowerment. This visual shift also introduces the band’s new theatrical stage personas, with the masks becoming a staple of their live performances.

Through a mix of metal riffs, emo rock, and melodic vocals, frontwoman Lauren Pryce summons her band of monsters to create a sonic experience like no other. Based in Toronto, Monstrosa’s music unapologetically tackles themes of women’s empowerment, queer liberation, and mental health.

With their 2023 single “I Like Girls Like You Do” serving as a queer solidarity anthem and now “778” delivering an emotional knockout, Monstrosa is poised to enrapture both the Toronto music scene and beyond. Currently, the band is writing their heaviest, most theatrical EP yet, promising a bold new chapter for their monstrous sound.

Monstrosa “778” single artwork