Billie Eilish just released her debut album and I have not been able to stop listening. I had never listened to Eilish's music before, somewhat refusing to conform to the norms. But I thought I'd give her a chance, and now I'm hooked. Take a look at my thoughts on this innovative album.
!!!!!!!
This is an...interesting introduction, to say the least. I like that Eilish is able to open up her very vulnerable album with some humor and personality. The 13-second audio clip shares Eilish taking out her Invisalign, something most people do before bed; this is another reference to the album title.
bad guy
Opening up the album, this villainous tune grabs your attention immediately. It keeps a pretty steady, bass-heavy beat until the breakdown. The outro drives home the scary and villain persona Eilish creates with this track.
xanny
This is a complete left turn from the previous track. Eilish's vocals are so airy and haunting that getting goosebumps is inevitable. This track has some of the best production I have ever heard. It mimics a high of the drugs she talks about in the song with its crawl and unexpected beats.
you should see me in a crown
all the good girls go to hell
The juxtaposition in this track is crazy. It is definitely one of the more upbeat ones on the album, but the concept is dark. It fulfills everyone's pop-punk cravings. I can't help but think this is a stance against religion. Yet, Eilish confirmed that it is about climate change...definitely did not get that message.
wish you were gay
when the party's over
8
Want to know a genius marketing strategy? Track number eight is titled "8." This track sounds like it could have been recorded when Eilish was 8 years old with its higher pitch and ukulele backing. However, the lyrics are extremely sad. It's difficult what the message of this song is with the juxtaposition of tones.
my strange addiction
bury a friend
This track keeps you on your toes. Its extremely haunting message coupled with the layered harmonies here and there is something else. Sounds travel from ear to ear to create this isolation and trapped feeling. Eilish created a full experience with this song.
ilomilo
listen before i go
i love you
goodbye
With clips from every song, Eilish creates the perfect finish line for this rollercoaster of an album. Going from the end to the beginning, she reminds us that this is not the end.