Reviewer: Otis Robinson
Released: 28th February 2025
Label: Because
In this sequel EP to 2024's 'Club Shy', Shygirl compiles tracks that were cut from sessions held in 2020, revisiting the industrial, experimental R&B of her earlier work while building on the “unrelenting, rule-breaking electronica” of 'Club Shy'. Revitalized by a selection of her peers—including Saweetie, PinkPantheress, and Jorja Smith—these deep cuts are infused with the London alt-pop trailblazer’s signature off-kilter, anxious vision for the future of nightlife. The track ‘Immaculate (ft. Saweetie)’ features typical Shygirl horror trap elements, melding screeches and sirens, while ‘Flex (ft. BAMBII)’ showcases her unnerving, extraterrestrial grime alongside her nympho-android lyrics. In other tracks, she experiments further with the ‘Club Shy’ aesthetic: the opener ‘Je m’appelle’ taps into the energetic electroclash sounds reminiscent of Peaches’ ‘Shake Yer Dix’, offering a punk-inspired take on the usual ‘Club Shy’ vibe, whereas ‘Wifey Riddim (ft. Jorja Smith)’ evokes hyperpop-inflected UK speed garage, presenting a vibrant sonic landscape. “In the name of Shy we trust,” she asserts on the dreamy, retro-futuristic anthem ‘F*Me’, and we wholeheartedly agree: this club-ready alt-pop collection - to bridge the gap until her next album - is just as captivating as its forerunner.
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Reviewer: Otis Robinson Released: February 28, 2025 Label: Because