Melanie Martinez, the talented and unique singer-songwriter, has recently released her third studio album, “Portals”. The album, which was released on March 31 of this year, has been highly anticipated by fans and critics alike, and it does not disappoint.

Since the release of her debut album, “Cry Baby,” Martinez has developed a reputation for favoring a youthful appearance. She was well-known for wearing her hair up in pigtails, one side blonde and the other black. Martinez created an on-stage juvenile persona intended to be viewed as innocent with a dark side using pinks, frilly skirts, and youthful accessories like bows.

Martinez’s most recent album shows a clear departure from her prior style, which was established after her first two albums. She’s adopted a new persona in place of feminine clothes, hair bows, and flushed cheeks. Martinez turned herself into a fairy-like, alien-like figure for the artwork on this record, which was a 180° few predicted.

More than that, the tone in general, as well as her vocals, are very distinct. In place of the pop atmosphere, her earlier cheerful vibe is replaced with strong guitar instrumentals and an electronic sound. The sound seems to be influenced by and evocative of the work of Icelandic musician Bjork.

“Portals” is a concept album that follows the story of a girl who falls down a rabbit hole and finds herself in a strange and surreal world. The album’s 13 tracks take the listener on a journey through the protagonist’s mind, exploring themes of identity, mental health, self deprecation, and desperation. Her lyrics are honest and introspective, with Martinez opening up about her own struggles with mental health and the pressures of her life.

One of the standout tracks on the album is “Leeches,” where she addresses prominent figures who abuse their power by harming the Earth. But that’s not the only noteworthy piece of the song. “Portals” does a terrific job transitioning from song to song. At the end of “Leeches”, we can hear a man yelling, whom many fans theorize is supposed to be Oliver Tree, Martinez’s abusive ex-boyfriend.

Another standout track is “The Contortionist”, a viral song on TikTok that explores the pressure to act the exact way others expect and the toll it can take on one’s mental health. The song’s powerful chorus and emotional lyrics have made it an instant fan favorite, with many listeners relating to its message of “contorting” one’s self for other people.

Ramapo Senior Alize has listened to some of the new tracks and has this to say about them: “I really love these songs. She [Martinez] is really singing to people who have trouble accepting themselves and she did it in a good way.”

Overall, “Portals” is a stunning and cohesive body of work that showcases Martinez’s growth as an artist and her willingness to take risks and push boundaries. The album is a must-listen for fans of Martinez’s unique and visionary sound, as well as anyone who appreciates honest and thought-provoking lyrics. “Portals” is a testament to Martinez’s talent and creativity, and it is sure to cement her status as one of the most innovative and exciting artists of our time.