Mel Parsons Releases Haunting New Single ‘Not Enough’
Critically acclaimed Aotearoa indie folk artist Mel Parsons has today released Not Enough, the final single ahead of her forthcoming album Castle Hill, out August 7.
A quietly devastating ballad wrapped in warmth and restraint, Not Enough captures the artist at her most emotionally honest – leaning fully into the melancholy she’s become known and loved for.
Unapologetically drawn to sad songs, Parsons says the emotional depth in her songwriting feels instinctive.
“Writing songs like these sad ones is quite natural for me. It’s probably a bit incongruous when people know me as an upbeat optimistic kind of person, and then sometimes this quite dark stuff comes out in my work. It doesn’t phase me really, I think it’s part of being a normal, complicated multifaceted human. As always I hope this song can make people feel something – maybe even bring some comfort.”
Not Enough explores the quiet heaviness of self-doubt and emotional exhaustion, while still carrying a thread of hope through its gentle instrumentation and understated optimism.
“It’s a song about those times when you’re really very low and feeling like whatever you try, you’re just not quite cutting it. But even though the lyrics are a little bleak, the music feels optimistic, in the way that when you’re down you know you just have to sit with it, and things will eventually come back to being ok.”
The single joins recent releases Grain by Grain, Post High Slide, Brick By Brick, Be Here Now, Don’t Leave The Light On and Caravan. With each release, Parsons has continued to cement her reputation as one of Aotearoa’s most compelling and emotionally resonant songwriters, balancing intimacy, vulnerability, and luminous songwriting with effortless grace.
The release of Not Enough marks the final preview of Mel Parsons’ highly anticipated seventh studio album Castle Hill, arriving August 7. Following the success of her celebrated 2024 album Sabotage, the multi-award-winning songwriter has continued an extraordinary run – touring nationally with Crowded House, performing across Canada and Australia, and earning a finalist nod for Best Folk Artist at the 2026 AMA’s.
An independent artist since forever, Parsons has launched a special Castle Hill pre-order campaign, giving fans the chance to support the album directly. Supporters can pre-order the stunning new record on vinyl or CD, as well as access a range of exclusive offers, including private concerts, Tickets for Life, and other unique experiences.
To further celebrate the release of Castle Hill, Parsons and her band will embark on a nationwide New Zealand tour, bringing the new songs to audiences around the country alongside favourites from her acclaimed catalogue.
Audiences can expect soaring harmonies, an emotionally charged and dynamic live show, and the warm, uplifting energy Parsons has become renowned for. Don’t miss the chance to experience one of Aotearoa’s finest live performers this August and September!
