It is simply impossible when it comes to fitting K.Flay’s sound into a specific mold. This is because K.Flay doesn’t follow the rules. She in fact, breaks them. There is no distinct genre she fits into, but instead she creates music that feels right to her and doesn’t restrict herself to one specific genre. Her fourth EP Crush Me is her darkest and most expressive piece of art released thus far.
The leading single ‘Blood In The Cut’ has been spotlighted in promo spots for the new season of Scream Queens and features the most pulsating drum beat we have heard from Flay. The song runs through your head and stays there for awhile. It’s noted that the track displays a more mature side of Flay and we see that develop more throughout the rest of the EP.
The EP is a project of grunge experimentation and it’s the most obvious in ‘Hollywood Forever’. It’s where she admits that “in the dark everything is better.” The song could be our favorite on the EP and the most lyrically strong. While possibly the darkest song Flay showcases on Crush Me, it’s one of most raw and honest piece we’ve heard from her. “I’m scared I’m a loser / aware of my face / my father was a user / and I’m afraid I’m just the same.” The nature of the lyrics dig deep allowing us to get to know Flay not as the artist but as the person.
‘Dreamers’ brings back her roots with the trippy synths and vocals that we’ve all grown to love. It’s a hip hop tune with an influence of alternative that brings the EP to life. “You Felt Right’ ties everything together with another hip hop influenced sound, and could very well be labeled as the strangest track. “I’m always in the wrong place at the wrong time” she sings in the chorus with strength and vulnerability in her voice. It may be the strangest but it’s the one that sticks out the most.
Overall, Crush Me breaches the gap from heartbreak to fearing what it’s like to never be scared. The sound is exception and the lyrics strong. We know Flay is an artist of originality, and it’s showcased effortlessly on Crush Me. As a whole, the EP is impressive and reminds us that K.Flay hasn’t changed. She is still doing what she’s always done and that is create music that holds no boundary. Crush Me is a brilliant collection to add to your moody playlist and one that will be played for a long time.
Stream Crush Me on Apple Music
Purchase Crush Me on iTunes
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