Whimsical & Alien: PORTALS by Melanie Martinez
Overall Rating: 8.5/10
PORTALS by Melanie Martinez is an exploration of spiritual rebirth and the cyclical nature of life, death, and transformation. It moves beyond the narrative of her “Crybaby” persona, delving into deeper themes of self-discovery and evolution. The album uses the metaphor of death and rebirth to symbolize the shedding of old selves and the embracing of new beginnings. Martinez further explores this theme with imagery of otherworldly creatures and a connection to nature, signifying a spiritual awakening. Ethereal sounds and introspective lyrics depict the shedding of past traumas and the acceptance of a new, evolved identity.
Track 1: DEATH 9.3/10
Usually first tracks are towards the middle of my rankings, but this one is close to the top for me. I think it’s memorable and conveys the vibe of the album well. The production is also top-tier; the synths, percussion, use of autotune.
Track 2: VOID 9/10
Another incredible track that balances a deepness and a lightness. The lyrics are tragically beautiful.
“Someone tell me if this is hell”
Track 3: TUNNEL VISION 7.9/10
References the album title, “Follow the tunnel into the portal”, which hooks the listener. Love how it starts out slower and then picks up but retains some of the softness in her voice. The end section is too long and just doesn’t fit the rest of the song for me which is why it got a lower score, but I do like how it transitions into FAIREE SOIRÉE.
Track 4: FAIREE SOIRÉE 8/10
This song is a WHOLE vibe. The imagery in the lyrics is palpable, and the light, twinkly melody fits so well. Like TUNNEL VISION though, I’m not a huge fan of the switch-up in pace and melody at the end.
Track 5: LIGHT SHOWER 7.8/10
The lyrics of this song are so deliciously unhinged. “You make me want to plan out my last days on Earth eating you” But the music and production aren’t anything special.
Track 6: SPIDER WEB 8.7/10
This song is so unique and follows such a specific theme. Every instrument, sound effect, and lyric reminds me of a spider. The melody is also so catchy and I catch myself humming it allll the time.
Track 7: LEECHES 8.3/10
Sounds so smooth and slimy. Really highlights Melanie’s voice tone and range.
Track 8: BATTLE OF THE LARYNX 9.7/10
One of my favorite tracks of the album! Such a creative theme and the the lyrics are so unique. But my favorite part is the music, specifically the chorus. It just itches a scratch in my brain. The climax of the song is also so well-done and just crashes together perfectly. The transition into THE CONTORTIONIST is the best one on the album imo.
Track 9: THE CONTORTIONIST 9.8/10
Definitely tied with favorite track of the album – there is SO much I could say about this song.The use of bones cracking as sound effects is so creative and interesting. Every detail is so meticulously thorough and on-theme. The background voices with the melody on top. And when Melanie sing-laughs!! UGH! Also, the contrast between Melanie’s belting and head voice in this song is top-tier.
Track 10: MOON CYCLE 6.6/10
This is probably my least favorite track. It just feels a little cringy to me personally, and doesn’t feel like it fits with the rest of the album.
Track 11: NYMPHOLOGY 8.7/10
SUCH a fun one. Feels like teasing, irreverent, sexy. Vocals show so much range. I would give this one a higher rating if it wasn’t for the last section of the song that completely switches the vibe (sounds familiar.. lol). Good transition into EVIL, though.
Track 12: EVIL 8.8/10
SOO GOOD. It’s hard to explain but this track feels rock-hard and the background music is consistent and solid. The lyrics express a relationship between a manipulator and someone who is no longer susceptible to their manipulation. Very powerful.
Track 13: WOMB 8/10
Good, balanced track to end on. Has distinguishable sections that guide the listener. PERFECT transition back into DEATH.
Read my vibe check of another ethereal album, X’s by Cigarettes After Sex!
