The extended version of her initial release is an exhilarating pop sensation...
08 · 12 · 2025
Typically, an artist’s encore presents a few additional songs before their performance concludes. However, JADE, known for her exceptional approach, surprised us last Friday with eight more tracks via streaming, as an enhancement to her debut solo album ‘THAT’S SHOWBIZ, BABY!’.
The second disc of this project is far more unified than the first, reflecting JADE’s evolving mastery of her pop identity. The songs feel less like mere ‘bonus’ tracks and more like a polished reimagining of her initial release.
‘THE ENCORE’ is infused with the pop aesthetics of the early 2000s, as the former Little Mix member revisits this era to shape her sound. The lead single ‘Church’ appears to be taken directly from MTV, featuring a captivating mix of sultry, minimalistic moments and dynamic beats. Much of the additional tracklist follows suit, embracing nostalgia by revisiting classic pop elements. This approach grants the project lasting appeal, as she moves away from fleeting trends in favor of showcasing the breadth of her artistry.
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The B-side mirrors the first half by omitting any guest features, a deliberate choice that resonates with her extensive experience performing solo. Yet even with her singular voice, JADE introduces musical diversity through various vocal effects and acoustic arrangements, allowing her to exhibit her range and infuse this new work with the richness of her collaborative past.
Although the overall mood is primarily upbeat, this doesn’t imply that all the lyrics share that tone. Songs like ‘This Is What We Dance For’ and ‘Tar’ reveal the pop star grappling with darker thoughts (“anxiety’s fucking crazy”/ “Bad thoughts sticking to me like tar”). The stark contrast between emotional depth and polished pop is striking but only deepens our connection to her, as we value her candid honesty about experiences we all face.
In summary, JADE’s follow-up is a striking and adaptable success. While ‘THAT’S SHOWBIZ, BABY!’ had some inconsistencies, ‘THE ENCORE’ smooths out the rough edges as the Angel Of The North truly finds her footing.
8/10
Words: Zahra Hanif
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The usual artist’s encore presents us with three additional songs before their performance concludes. However, JADE, who consistently exceeds expectations, offered eight.