New Music: FKA twigs

By Michael Ghanem, September 3 2015 —

To FKA twigs’ most dedicated fans, M3LL155X (pronounced “Melissa”) came after months of teasing, song releases and live performances. To the rest of the world, the five-track release was a complete surprise, dropping without notice on Aug. 13.

Since her critically acclaimed debut album, LP1, in 2014, the world has kept a curious eye on Tahliah Barnett’s FKA twigs project. The debut album was a bold take on pop music than embraced a darker sound than most top-40 singles.

Barnett starts the release off strong with “Figure 8,” which twigs has been performing on tour since early this year. The track explores her newfound love of vogue dancing while showcasing her impressive vocal range.

The next track, “I’m Your Doll,” is a darker song that, once unloaded, reveals itself as an empowered anthem. “Dress me up, I’m your doll. Love me rough, I’m your doll,” she sings, alluding to the sexual objectification women face.

“In Time” showcases a new vocal style for Barnett, contrasting her signature whimper. The track is refreshing, light and radio-friendly, unlike most songs Barnett has previously released.

M3LL155X is a success, and a sign of things to come for FKA twigs. Barnett’s music is carefully crafted, riddled with emotional depth and insight about sexuality and relationships. On the EP, she finds a way to harness pent-up pain and sadness to birth a brilliant creativity.