Review
Lizzy McAlpine's "five seconds flat" is a brilliant follow-up to her debut, diving deep into the ebb and flow of emotions that come with love and loss. The album, which dropped on April 8, 2022, beautifully captures the complexities of human relationships through its lyrical prowess and refined musical styles. I was particularly moved by the opener "doomsday," where Lizzy's haunting vocals perfectly complement the mood set by somber chords, hinting at the themes of grief woven throughout the album. Another gem, "chemtrails," is a heart-wrenching homage to her late father, layered with a poignant piano score that fades into childhood memories, showcasing McAlpine's skill at marrying personal stories with her music.
Moving away from the acoustic vibes of her earlier work, Lizzy experiments boldly in "five seconds flat," integrating elements like electronic effects and rock vibes, which add a rich texture and dynamic quality to the tracks. Songs like "firearm" and "erase me" showcase her genre-bending flair, while collaborations with talents like Jacob Collier and FINNEAS inject a polished, mature feel to the entire project. The album isn’t without its critiques—some find certain tracks clichéd or wanting in lyrical depth—but these moments are sparse and don't detract from the album's overall impact. Accompanied by a short film that visually narrates the themes of the music, Lizzy McAlpine not only sings her stories but also shows them, creating a complete, cinematic experience that further exemplifies her artistic evolution. To me, "five seconds flat" isn’t just music; it's an emotional journey that cements Lizzy’s standing in the indie music scene. - Sienna
