Mastering the "Cool" Factor
Lazy Lies is a standout track from Capital Cities' debut album In a Tidal Wave of Mystery. Unlike power ballads that require massive lung capacity, this song demands precision, rhythmic accuracy, and a "too cool to care" attitude. It’s a perfect song for Baritones and Tenors looking to practice their lower-to-mid range control without straining.
The vocals are delivered in a dry, upfront style. The challenge lies in the crisp diction and the subtle bounce of the melody. You need to lock in with the bassline rather than floating over it.
AI Coach Tip: Watch Your Diction
Because the instrumentation is sparse in the verses, slurred words stand out immediately. Emphasize your consonants, especially on the words "Lazy" and "Lies" to match the staccato feel of the synth.
Phase 1: The Verse Groove (0:00 - 0:45)
The verses are sung primarily in the chest voice. The melody moves in short, rhythmic bursts. The key here is not to sing legato (smooth/connected). Instead, aim for a slightly detached, percussive sound.
The Trap: Many singers rush the beat here. The song has a laid-back tempo. Sit on the back edge of the beat to capture that effortless indie-pop vibe.
Phase 2: The Chorus (0:45 - 1:15)
The chorus opens up harmonically. While the lead vocal stays grounded, this is where you can experiment with tone. Keep the volume controlled—this isn't a shouting chorus. Think of it as a conversation set to music.
- Tone Color: Keep the sound forward in the mask (the front of your face) to ensure it cuts through the mix.
- Harmonies: If you are singing along to the track, try to pick out the higher harmony line (usually a third above) to practice your pitch accuracy.
Phase 3: The Bridge & Outro
The song features instrumental breaks where the vocals take a backseat, but when they return, energy needs to be maintained without raising volume. The repetition of "Lazy lies, you tell them so well" requires consistent pitch. Do not let your pitch flat as you run out of breath at the end of the phrase.
Frequently Asked Questions
The main vocal melody tops out around G4, which is very accessible for most male voices. Background harmonies may reach higher into the falsetto range.
Yes! The song translates beautifully to a female range (Alto/Mezzo). You can sing it in the original key for a lower, sultry vibe, or transpose it up +2 or +3 semitones in the Singing Coach AI app.
The phrasing is quick. Practice "snatch breaths"—taking quick, silent inhales through your mouth between phrases rather than long, deep breaths.
