Andrew Spice Turns Awkward Romance into Whimsical Melancholy on “Terrible Date”

Canadian indie singer-songwriter Andrew Spice swaps fury for farce on his charming new track, “Terrible Date.” Following the cinematic drama of his previous singles, “Rage Stage” and “Gentle Sentinel,” this whimsical indie waltz turns the awkwardness of a romantic flop into something melodically melancholic and universally relatable.

Written by Spice and produced by two-time JUNO nominee Matthew Barber, “Terrible Date” is a playful detour into romantic misadventure. The song features strings, synths, and a lilting piano rhythm that mirrors the emotional chaos of an evening gone sideways. Acclaimed musician Mike Tompa contributed a madcap string arrangement along with additional keys and guitar, helping to capture both the charm and cringe of a date best left in the rearview. Spice’s husband, Miss Moço, directed, filmed, and co-starred in the accompanying visuals – an ironic, full circle moment for a song about a “Terrible Date.”

“A ‘Terrible Date’ is something most of us have gone through. Although it can be a crushing experience, a little time and distance can help us look back and find some humour in it all. This song is a whimsical and melancholic ode to a Saturday night with a person I will never see again (and I’m sure we’re both okay with that),” says Andrew Spice, capturing the bittersweet essence of the song’s narrative.

Spice’s return to music after a 21-year hiatus has been anything but quiet. His singles “High Park,” “Gentle Sentinel,” and “Rage Stage” drew praise from outlets like Wonderland, FAULT, and House of Solo, amassing over 60,000 music video views and earning airplay on CBC, WXPN, and campus radio across North America. This momentum builds anticipation for his long-awaited sophomore album, set for release later this year, which explores themes of queerness, resilience, grief, humour, and healing, all delivered with unflinching emotional honesty.

A classically trained pianist and acclaimed songwriter, Andrew Spice first emerged on the scene with 2003’s Pretty Demons (produced by Emm Gryner). The album earned him an OutMusic Award nomination and accolades from NOW Toronto, Toronto Star, and Swerve. After stepping away from music to pursue a career as a clinical psychologist, Spice’s return brings a fresh, hard-earned perspective to his songwriting, making his new body of work both deeply human and resonant.

“Terrible Date” stands out as a delicate balance of vulnerability and levity, showing how even our most uncomfortable moments can be transformed into art that connects and comforts. The track’s whimsical yet melancholic tone mirrors the experience of anyone who’s ever found themselves fumbling through an evening that simply didn’t go as planned, yet looking back with a mix of amusement and acceptance.

The collaboration between Spice, Barber, and Tompa results in a layered soundscape that is both lush and intimate. The strings add a cinematic sweep while the piano and synth layers infuse the song with a bittersweet groove. This carefully crafted production perfectly underscores the song’s narrative — a story that is as much about emotional chaos as it is about the humor found in hindsight.

The music video, directed by Spice’s husband Miss Moço, adds another layer of playful irony and authenticity. Featuring Moço as co-star, the visuals bring the awkwardness and charm of the song to life with subtle humor and heartfelt moments, making it a fitting visual companion to the track’s narrative.

“Terrible Date” is a testament to Andrew Spice’s ability to blend personal storytelling with broader emotional truths. It’s a song that invites listeners to reflect on their own experiences of romantic missteps, reminding us all that sometimes, the worst nights can make for the best stories.

As Andrew Spice continues to share his new work, his blend of classical training, life experience, and emotional honesty makes him a compelling voice in contemporary indie music. His journey back to the music world feels like a new chapter — one where resilience and humour dance hand in hand, even on the most “Terrible” of dates.