Chinese-American pop artist, Lexie Liu released her EP, “Teenage Ramble” on Oct. 16, which consists of eight high energy tracks that are a mixture of genres using elements of futuristic pop. She is mainly known for her previous works such as “The Happy Star” as it received major acclaim for the multilingual lyrics that she used ranging from Mandarin, English to Spanish all throughout her album. Her new release “Teenage Ramble” is a continuation of that same sound but additionally she adds something new to the table by incorporating synths, relatable lyrics and a playfulness in her vocals.
The first track “Adrenaline” sets the tone for the rest of the EP as you are hit with an adrenaline rush as you listen to her express her thoughts on her current love life. The main hook of the song, “I could be your girlfriend when I’m feeling dumb” serves as a statement that she’s aware that she isn’t making the best decisions.
Transitioning into the title track, “Teenage Ramble”, which feels like an entry to her diary. We as listeners get a chance to hear her sing about girlhood and what being a young teenager was like. The song is fast paced and super catchy, a lot of the lyrics are all over the place as she rambles on.
“FFFFF” talks about how she doesn’t care and all she needs is someone. The song is rather repetitive at times but she describes herself as someone who is reckless and doesn’t give a care in the world. Seeming rather impatient as she sings throughout the song.
Liu’s airy vocals become prominent in her synth filled track “Deeper and Deeper.” She’s almost breathless as she sings in an eerie tone. It reminds me of the perfect song to listen to at a party where everyone is jumping up and down but in slow motion.
Moving to my most replayed song, in “X” self confidence oozes from this track. I believe it fully encapsulates what Lexie Liu’s signature sound is. It reminds me of her previous song. “Belive me I’m that girl”.
Tracks such as “Pop Girl” and “Like U” were similar within themes as she sings about self confidence. She is aware that she is a pop girl that a lot of young girls and gays love which is the truth! “I serve hot girl chic. I cover magazines after 9 hours of sleep.” She sings with a confident manner.
The closing track “Cigarette – Demo” reminded me of a song you’d hear in a video game as you fight the evil boss. It sounds menacingly scary and gives Halloween vibes and in all honesty I wish the track was longer. Two minutes is not enough!
As a long time fan of Lexie Liu I loved the album as it reminded me how much I missed listening to her music and it made me revisit her previous works. I will say that the album wasn’t as cohesive as I thought it would be. Coming from the same artist who released “The Happy Star” and “Meta Ego” that were excellent albums in their entirety. To me personally, the new EP felt a bit rushed but nonetheless I’m here to support whatever genre style she wants to try next. The entire album is filled with upbeat tracks that make you just want to get up and dance. It makes you want to spin around like a white girl but also run down a fashion runway as you’re in your best outfit with high heels on and a miniskirt that may be way too short.
