When social anxiety hits hard, it can make you feel like a stranger in your own skin.

For Josh Tavares, the re-emergence of his social anxiety hit hard one New Year’s Eve. That led him to write “Con Man,” from his new album ASHES, released last Friday. Over an ethereal indie pop soundscape, the Toronto-based songwriter laments the ways the trickster inside of our minds sends us hurtling into a battle with our fears — namely, slipping back into our old methods of self-sabotage and escape.

Indeed, this is a concept that fits right in with the themes on ASHES — in Tavares’ own words, these include “growing out of toxic relationships, figuring out what you want in life, figuring out what it means to be treated properly by someone, or getting through a tough time and coming out smarter and stronger because of an experience.”

Ready to confront this “Con Man?” Tune into today’s Daily Spinn below!

The Daily Spinn is presented by The Quinn Spinn, UMC’s official podcast. The Quinn Spinn features conversations with musicians, producers, content creators, and industry professionals, providing insight into what it takes to succeed as a creative entrepreneur in today’s industry. Follow the show and listen to the latest on Spotify, Anchor, Apple Podcasts, and more!