"Lately" is really about being honest about the past. The song talks about how heavy regret can be and how frustrating it is to know that some moments can never be relived or fixed. Jess Ball's delivery has that emotional tension, but she doesn't make it too dramatic. The song has a feeling of emotional exhaustion running through it, but it also has a desire for understanding instead of forgiveness.
Working with UK rapper Jelani Blackman adds an interesting twist. Ball's writing is introspective and emotionally fluid, while Blackman's writing is sharp and grounded. Their different styles don't clash, instead, they make the story stronger by giving two different emotional perspectives on the same theme of looking back and feeling bad about yourself. They make a conversation that feels real, unfinished, and natural.
"Lately" stays focused musically, but it has enough variety to keep the listener interested. The song possesses an unrefined quality that requires minimal production, allowing emotion to take center stage. The song's reflective core is intact, and every part feels like it belongs. "Lately" sticks with you not because it tries to fix regret, but because it sits with it. Jess Ball keeps making music that feels honest, immersive, and quietly powerful, which is why it resonates with so many people.