Review
Poppy’s latest album, Zig, released on October 27th under Sumerian Records, marks another unpredictable turn in the artist’s diverse musical journey. Moriah Rose Pereira, known for seamlessly navigating various genres from electropop to heavy metal, takes a bold leap into the realm of electronic experimentation with this album.
Comprising 11 tracks, Zig is a sonic exploration filled with distorted vocals, industrial beats, and post-grunge elements, all intricately woven together with electronic undertones. While Poppy’s 2020 album, I Disagree, showcased her prowess in merging metal and rock, Zig takes a different path by leaving behind the punk and metal influences in favor of a deeper dive into electronic soundscapes.
Empowerment takes center stage in this album, evident from the opening track, “Church Outfit,” a somber yet almost sleazy anthem where Poppy declares that no one should dictate what one wears. This sets the tone for the dark and diverse pop journey that Poppy continues to tread.
The second track, “Knockoff”, envelops the listener in a sonic landscape filled with a thumping bass and layered sonics, creating an almost immersive experience. “Hard” stands out with a prominent bassline, fused with glacial synths that gradually escalate into a screaming digital hardcore climax, marking a personal high point on this album.
While the other tracks like “Zig” and “Hard” retain elements of Poppy’s punk roots with heavy riffs and pounding beats, others follow a more predictable path. “Flicker” emerges as a brighter spot on the album, introducing a cheerier tone compared to the other ones.
In essence, Zig positions Poppy as an artist unafraid of evolution, willing to explore uncharted territories while retaining the core of her identity. While it may not replicate the metal and rock elements of her previous work, the album underscores Poppy’s commitment to pushing boundaries and embracing a diverse musical landscape.