Bouncing piano opens the song, joined by a steady beat that works to get the listener swaying on their feet. The track has some comical lyrics about being ugly, with the narrator describing his “black eyes” and “broken teeth” and saying “women won’t look at me.” Despite all of this, in the chorus he sings “I gotta keep moving.” Though most of the song takes on a light tone, there is a certain inspirational quality present in this theme to try and accept yourself and your flaws no matter how other people may be perceiving you. Later in the song, he does mention feeling better “now that I’ve got you out of my life for good.” It is relatable that a toxic relationship can bring out our insecurities, and removing them from your life is essential in order to let go of the past.
The instrumental sections in this song are some of the most fun parts, with electric guitar solos raising the energy through the roof, or congas breaking down the song before the rest of the arrangement comes slamming back in. Recorded in Phoenix, Los Angeles, and Peru, “Pretty Ugly” displays the unique talent and original sound of Archer Stevens.
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