AleXa. Photo: courtesy of the artist, ZB Label.
AleXa hits a new milestone with her debut English album Sugarcoat that juxtaposes her musical growth and various genres, drawing attention to the pop star’s talent and range, and, perhaps most importantly, the way she feels. The ten-track album features six singles released in 2024 and four brand-new songs that she believes would resonate with listeners more deeply.
Among the already released tracks are hits like “i’m okay” and “sick,” with the former being an affectionate nod for those battling mental health issues, which she explained in a statement before stems from a place of honesty and understanding; having bipolar disorder herself, she knows the complexity and challenges of “facing your darkest demons.” There are more gems on the record, including the pop-rock “Joy of Missing Out,” themed on self-love, and similar introspective tracks like “Distraction,” “Under the Armor,” and “Enemy.”
The album’s title track is one with thoughtful lyrics. Its sonic atmosphere and words like “Hold it in, cinnamon on my mind” offer a distinct sense of surrealism, concurrently searing emotions. The ballad explores the repercussions of hurting someone and the conflict between sugarcoating what happened and being honest. Quoting AleXa from a press release, “‘Sugarcoat’ is a song about realization, regret, and the hope for reconciliation.” “I hope listeners can relate to it and find their own stories within the lyrics.”
An essential component of Sugarcoat is the subtleties of complex romantic relationships. In terms of the song “Fatal,” it portrays a relationship that’s simultaneously “intoxicating” and “destructive.” Reflecting on its creative process, AleXa states that turning intense emotions into music “was deeply memorable.”
Next up, “Arrogant” is about embracing nurturing oneself and being tough and defiant in the face of a toxic relationship. The track highlights identifying ego and narcissism getting in the way of things, and when they do, it’s time to let go. “If they love themselves more than you, then walk away, babe,” says the artist.
“Something New,” Sugarcoat’s final song, addresses varying feelings while also individual growth and development. While cathartic in tones, AleXa sounds powerful, letting her vivid vocals accentuate her thoughts. One notable thing is the sarcastic reiteration of “I’m fine” throughout the tune, which underlines its underlying message.
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