The Art of Nonchalance
"Trying to Be Cool" is a defining track from Phoenix's 2013 album Bankrupt!. Unlike powerhouse rock anthems, this song requires a delicate, stylistic approach. Thomas Mars, the lead singer, uses a technique that sounds effortless and slightly lazy, but is actually quite precise in terms of rhythm and pitch placement.
To score high on this track, you need to master the art of singing slightly behind the beat (layback) without losing the tempo, and flip seamlessly between your chest voice and a light, airy falsetto.
AI Coach Tip: Soften the Consonants
Mars doesn't over-articulate. The delivery is conversational. If you hit your T's and K's too hard, you'll lose the smooth, synth-pop vibe. Aim for a legato flow between words.
Phase 1: The Verses (Low & Rhythmic)
The song starts in a comfortable speaking range. The melody sits around G3 to E4. The challenge here is the rhythmic pocket. The lyrics "Tell me what you want from me / It’s not how it used to be" should be delivered with a dry, almost spoken tone.
The Trap: Many singers try to project too much volume here. Keep it mezzo-piano. Think of it as whispering a secret to someone next to you, rather than singing to a stadium.
Phase 2: The Chorus (The Falsetto Flip)
This is the signature hook. On the line "Trying to be cool," the melody jumps up. You must switch to your head voice or falsetto. It shouldn't sound operatic or "hooty"—it needs to be bright and thin.
- Pitch Accuracy: The synth lead doubles the vocal melody. If you are slightly flat, it will clash noticeably with the backing track.
- Breath Control: The chorus lines are long. Take a quick, silent breath before "Tell me you want it" to ensure you have enough air to sustain the phrase without your voice cracking.
Phase 3: The Bridge & Outro
The energy builds slightly, but the vocal texture remains consistent. The repetition in the outro requires you to maintain focus. As the instrumentation gets busier, ensure your vocal volume increases slightly to cut through the mix, but rely on forward resonance (mask placement) rather than pushing from the throat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, for the authentic Phoenix sound, the high notes in the chorus should be sung in falsetto or a very light head voice. Belting these notes will change the genre from Indie Pop to Rock.
The melody peaks around a B4 in the falsetto sections. In full chest voice, it rarely goes above an E4.
Avoid heavy vibrato. Keep the tone straight and pure. Practice transitioning from chest to head voice until the "break" in your voice is minimized but still stylistically audible.
