[Review] Melanie Martinez introduces fans to new album ‘Portals’

Melanie+Martinez+releases+new+album+Portals.+Martinez+dropped+new+cds+and+merch+coming+in+a+variety+of+colors+this+March.+Photo+courtesy+of+Melanie+Martinez+Official+Store.

Melanie Martinez Official Store

Melanie Martinez releases new album Portals. Martinez dropped new cd’s and merch coming in a variety of colors this March. Photo courtesy of Melanie Martinez Official Store.

Mariana Neri Sapori, Writer

Pop artist Melanie Martinez has recently come out with a new album on March 31, 2023 on streaming platforms Spotify and Apple Music, Melanie Martinez’s album, “Portals,” is a stunning showcase of the singer’s artistic evolution. The album features an eclectic mix of styles and genres, ranging from upbeat pop anthems to dark, introspective ballads. With “Portals”, Martinez proves that she is not afraid to take risks and push the boundaries of her music.

Her new track begins with the song “Death,” a sequel to her “K-12” album and movie which ended with her entering a portal. “Death” was uploaded on March 24, 2023 and shows a variety of visuals including the hatching of an egg and her climbing out of a grave. Many fans have formed theories that Crybaby, her character in “K-12,” has died a mysterious death and is being reborn.

Other songs are followed by a direct opposite style compared to her previous album that consisted of nostalgic childhood tunes and playful hooks, yet often dark, lyrics. Now, the once whimsical music of storytelling has turned into an echoic series confronting earlier themes presented in other albums such as childhood trauma, bullying and social issues.

As analyzed by some of her fans, some of her songs, such as “Nymphology” and “Moon Cycle,” are indirect callouts to her ex-boyfriend Oliver Tree who holds a position as a well-known music artist that has mocked her in past lyrics and music videos. Martinez aims to target her past experiences and show her growing confidence especially regarding love.

Many fans have already expressed their excitement towards her new character displayed in music videos that consists of a pink alien looking creature with two pairs of eyes in her doll face and wings. Some, though, miss her old looks with dresses and doll-like style. In my opinion, I am glad that she can express herself like this to her audience and let us explore her musical world. Melanie Martinez has been one of my favorite artists for years now, and seeing her change can be difficult to adjust to, but I like how she is providing us with new experiences.

I would definitely recommend for those interested in her music to listen to “Portals.” Not only are the lyrics meaningful, but the aesthetics are pleasing and oddly beautiful in their own way. With new music videos coming out, fans can understand the storyline and message captured in her songs. It will also be exciting to watch the many video reviews analyzing possible references to future music and discovering more secrets about Melanie Martinez’s history that she reflects in her new character.

This pop-fantasy themed album lasts for about 51 minutes and 31 seconds. Her music has already gained a platform in many social media apps like Instagram and Tiktok. The artist has also confirmed an upcoming movie similar to “K-12” to tell the story of Crybaby’s rebirth and uncover the mysteries about her death. While the date is not set, it can be inferred that it will be coming soon and will be an even better representation of her ‘Portals’ album.