Album Review: "Forest (Monsters Live In The Trees)" by Black Polish
Written by: Keyali Mikaela
Black Polish, the musical moniker of Los Angeles-based singer and songwriter Jayden Nicole Binnix, takes listeners on a mesmerizing journey through the depths of their emotions in the debut album, "Forest (Monsters Live In The Trees)." Released on January 26, 2024, via Riptide Music, this album showcases not only Binnix's artistic prowess but also their ability to create an immersive and cathartic musical experience.
The album opens with the haunting track "Monsters," setting the tone for what unfolds as an ethereal alt-pop fever dream. Binnix delves into themes of self-discovery, mental health, and the complexities of human emotions throughout the 33-minute adventure.
The standout track, "willows," beautifully captures the unexpected nature of love. Binnix reflects on the surprising connection with a person who defies their usual preferences, and the chorus resonates with a sense of longing and intimacy. The dreamy instrumentation complements the poignant lyrics, creating a spellbinding atmosphere.
"birthwright" takes a different sonic direction, exploring themes of identity and the desire for purpose. The chorus, with its plea for reason and a yearning to be more than just a creation, showcases the depth of Binnix's songwriting.
In "Tears Are Falling," the vulnerability of the lyrics is matched by the intensity of the musical arrangement. Binnix poetically describes a dreamscape where scary creatures and twisted features manifest, conveying a sense of emotional unraveling.
"Void" confronts societal expectations and the struggle to find one's identity. The lyrics paint a picture of discomfort and disassociation, backed by a dynamic musical backdrop that mirrors the internal conflicts explored in the song.
"streetsigns" takes a confessional and introspective turn, revealing the singer's challenges in maintaining connections and navigating personal struggles. The juxtaposition of running down the street with fears in front creates a powerful image of facing inner demons.
Closing the album, "graves" serves as a poignant reflection on the aftermath of a broken relationship. The haunting melodies and introspective lyrics create a melancholic yet captivating conclusion to the musical journey.
"Forest (Monsters Live In The Trees)" is a testament to Black Polish's genre-fluid artistry, seamlessly blending elements of pop, rock, alternative, and folk. Binnix's evocative vocals, coupled with the poignant storytelling, make this debut album a compelling and emotionally charged experience. The atmospheric production, coupled with the vulnerability laid bare in each track, solidifies Black Polish as a refreshing voice in the indie music landscape.
In this debut, Black Polish invites listeners into the forest of their mind, where monsters, dreams, and emotions intertwine. The result is an album that not only captivates with its sonic diversity but also resonates on a deeply personal level. "Forest (Monsters Live In The Trees)" marks the beginning of an exciting musical journey for Black Polish, leaving audiences eagerly anticipating what comes next.
