Singer and Youtuber mxmtoon, also known as Maia, just recently dropped her freshman album The Masquerade on Monday September 16th. Although I have been exposed to the genres Bedroom Pop and Lofi Hip Hop before, this will be my first time listening to any of her music. As a result, this review is being made with completely open ears, and it is safe to say, I was not disappointed!
Track 1: “Unspoken Words”
“Unspoken Words” is a perfect opening for the start of the album. It sets the tone of the album while also showcasing one of the themes that will largely be covered in the album: love. The song itself I enjoyed from its muffled percussions in the beginning and sound of piano keys being played to add a mystical element, to the added keyboard and phone ringing effects. It is definitely a song that makes you think about calling up the crush you never admitted having one on, and admitting just that.
Track 2: “Prom Dress”
“Prom Dress” is a song that I can see gaining quick popularity during prom season. From relatable lyrics like “Everyone seemed to say it was so great // But did I miss out, was it a huge mistake?” when talking about the desire to be alone vs joining the crowd to the mix of melancholy to upbeat melodies. Also, “Prom Dress” to me is the song version of the cautionary tale: “The grass is greener on the other side,” which can be applied to adult life in realizing that not everything is for everybody.
Track 3: “Suffice”
“Suffice” hit way too close to home for me. From a romantic perspective it describes perfectly the feeling of being caught between wanting to admit your feelings but also not wanting to risk the friendship you already have. The lyrics “Cause, I have only loved without confession // I’d rather settle for a never ending stream of self-questioning” are the perfect reflection of that. I also really loved how this song acted as a mirror to the first track “Unspoken Words”, in that instead of choosing to admit feelings, opting to keep silent.
Track 4: “Blame Game”
“Blame Game” talks about the denial that leads up to and sometimes follows breakups. It’s filled with soothing vocals and steady beats that lull the listener into a comfortable mood, only to be cut off briefly by a loud fade-in sound that is as unexpected as the seemingly sudden heartbreak that is mentioned in the song.
Track 5: “High & Dry“
Three words: Ukulele, Ukulele, Ukulele. I’m kidding, but I do love the added ukulele to this song and the elements of the violin and clapping. With those choices, mxmtoon adds a celebratory vibe to a song about “karma coming back around”. Her choice to make the song a happy one instead of what could have fallen easily into anger brings something new and fresh to the table.
Track 6: “My Ted Talk”
I love how “My Ted Talk” is like a letter to the listeners and fans. It touches on the topics of anxiety that comes when feeling like there is a countdown to finding love, wondering if she wants love, and how that affects her own career.
Track 7: “Seasonal Depression”
“Seasonal Depression” is my favorite song on the entire album. From how the song switches from slow melodies to upbeat and loud, to showcase the switching of moods, to mentioning all the false remedies usually recommended: “a cup of tea and a nap don’t solve my problems”. Although it can be considered a fun song, it is still a very real song that does beautifully explaining seasonal depression.
Track 8: “Untitled”
“Untitled” follows the more traditional sound of slow songs you would find on pop radio. Filled with harmonizing, a strong percussion and guitar. The song itself was enjoyable and perfectly explains the feelings that one might feel when a friendship or relationship grows apart.
Track 9: “Dream of You“
I disliked the placement of this song as I feel like it was not the best song to follow “Untitled.” However, I liked how as “Dream of You” progressed the instruments built on top of each other. At first the song is simple key notes and guitar, then later drums. They really help carry the emotions of mxmtoon’s voice.
Track 10: “Late Nights”
Earlier I mentioned Lofi Hip Hop, “Late Nights” would be the song that specifically makes me think of that genre. Filled with mellow vibes and lyrics like “late nights are for lonely people // lying away hardly peaceful” the song is the perfect ending to an amazing album.
Overall, The Masquerade is a great album filled with minimalistic vibes that don’t take away from the emotional and sometimes powerful message in each song. I can completely see mxmtoon reaching a wider audience with this fantastic breakout album!
You can grab tickets to see mxmtoon on tour here, and check out her music here.
