Album Review: pizzagirl- 'Softcore Mourn'
Pizzagirl has made a grand return- in decedent, digitalised glory. Known for his artful pop offerings, the Scouse songwriter has introduced listeners to his reinvented sound with his debut album Softcore Morun, an offering that cuts to the core of the artist's psyche, decorated with electronic abundance. What emerges is a work that feels like an evolution from previous releases both sonically and emotionally, and sees Pizzagirl sit comfortably in the role of a quick-witted pop icon.
After a synth-filled soundscape eases us into the album, we are met with the introductory track ‘Car Freshener Aftershave’, that places Pizzagirl in the headlights of crisis. Repetitive synth patterns drive the track forward as the artist grapples with the reality of a hazy night out, and the aftermath that soon comes after. It’s a record that feels like the backing track to a misty Saturday night film, containing all the euphoria and despair found in the small hours.
However, despite the misery, Pizzagirl still maintains his humour, as his witty lyricism is front and centre of each offering. Tracks like ‘Al Pachino' and ‘Your Flat Earth Brother’ prove this best, both centering the artists' storytelling around acoustic backings reminiscent of 2000s soft-rock.
However, when it comes to the instrumental elements of the album, the artist's electronic choices is where magic can be found. While not all the tracks lean into the electronic feel completely, each remains somewhat digitalised, and few tracks wonderfully decadent. Tracks like ‘Sugar Ray’, fluctuates between autotunes vocals and aggressive drum machines soon build into a wall of all-encompassing synth patterns. But even softer tracks such as ‘Monreno’ make the most of the digital elements thrown in, utilising a brooding extended synth note that plays underneath easy-going strings and acoustic guitars. It creates a melding between each work that interconnects each record, and leaves for a fuller listening experience overall.
With Softcore Mourn, Pizzagirl creates an offering that is carefully created to show off as much of his persona as possible, while utilizing a sound that while unexpected, is certainly where the artist shines. It’s an album that seems to tell listeners who Pizzagirl is without even trying, leaving us with a clearer picture of the artist, much to listeners delight.
Words by Lily Blakeney-Edwards