A nice mixture of hyperpop, EDM and bubblegum bass, the sophomore LP from Rebecca Black shows all the signs of a future star finally finding their sound. 

This project is not going to wow you with introspective lyrics or clever social commentary, leaning more towards universal themes of love, loss and heartbreak against a backdrop of synths and crisp vocals. 

“Sugar Water Cyanide” is the standout track and for my money, the best song of Black’s entire career. The track flips from hyperpop club classic to heartfelt pop melodies and back again. A sonically conflicting song that somehow just works, it demands to be played as loud as possible, surrounded by like-minded people who also ‘get it.’ 

With clear influences from the likes of Charli xcx and SOPHIE, Black is taking the steps towards being a real force in the pop genre and while not every track is superb, there are more hits than misses on “SALVATION.” 

While formerly viewed as a one-hit wonder whose lone claim to fame was the polarizing “Friday” released in 2011, this album has ensured that Black will no longer be defined by that song. 

Now an artist standing on her own two feet with an expanding catalog, it appears that her best work is still ahead of her, but “SALVATION” is a promising sophomore effort. 

If you were a fan of  “Brat,” I think there is plenty you will find worthwhile about this project and Rebecca Black is now definitely a name worth keeping an eye on. 

Official Score: 7.5/10

Categories: Arts & Entertainment