“PORTALS” is the third studio album by artist Melaine Martinez, released on March. 31. This is her first album back after a two-year hiatus from music. This album is for people who love to be taken on a journey with their music.
Background
Melanie Martinez is an American singer and songwriter known for there musical and visual talents. They always tell a story through their lyrics and visuals for whatever they produce and this album is no different.
Her debut album “Cry Baby’ in 2015, brought forth the character Cry Baby who was seen throughout her next albums and works (eps, short films, etc) in this era. “PORTALS” is the death of Cry Baby and the rebirth of herself.
Ablum Highs
The lyrics in this album are unprecedented. Going from song to song it gives this full amazing story, that captivates you entirely. The song titles like ‘DEATH’ and ‘WOMB’ being at the beginning and end bring you a full circle of this story of rebirth.
Most of the songs have this light airy feeling that put you into this fairy forest. While the album feels like a storytelling masterpiece, it still gives you so much emotion that you can relate to. Especially with songs like ‘BATTLE OF THE LARYNX’ give you these strong emotions of hurt and the things you're trying not to say.
Overall the biggest highlight of the album is the ability Martinez has to not only give a full story through a record but to make you feel it.
Album Lows
I liked this album simply from a fan and storytelling standpoint, while the production of some of the songs pulled me in the wrong direction. There are electronic echoed voices throughout a lot of the songs, that pull me away from the lyric in the song.
Another thing that is great about the album from a storytelling perspective, but not a listening perspective is the introduction to most of the songs. There are little whispers and sounds that begin most songs that are great for a video, but not for something to listen to daily. I love the lyrics in this album, but the production definitely takes some getting used to.
Verdict
The more I listen to this record I think I will enjoy it even more, but from the outside standpoint of a non-fan, this album isn't for everyone. I love Melanie's style and artistry and that’s simply why I enjoy this album and the visuals and story that comes throughout it.
I give ‘PORTALS’ a 7.5 out of 10.
Top Songs
EVIL, WOMB, and DEATH are some of my favorite songs to check out for the average listener. Some songs that I also enjoy that are more story based are FAERIE SOIRÉE and SPIDER WEB.
