Ayria – Vicious World (Digital/CD EP – Artoffact Records)
Ayria is back with a new EP—one that could easily be described as a mini-album. “Vicious World” serves as a teaser for the upcoming full-length release, which Jennifer Parkin has already described as hard. The EP features five tracks, along with a remix of the title song by Seb Komor, who also handled the production.
It is clear that a great deal has happened in Jennifer Parkin’s life, experiences she has channeled into both her music and lyrics. The result is a highly varied release. The hard-hitting title track is driven by a solid EBM bassline and elevated by Parkin’s charismatic vocals, while the Komor Kommando remix takes the aggression to an even higher level. In contrast, the remaining tracks are softer in tone and draw more heavily on the Electro-Pop elements that have become a hallmark of Ayria’s sound. These songs are expertly crafted, with occasional EBM touches adding depth and texture. At the same time, a sense of sensuality emerges throughout the EP, conveyed not only through the vocals but also through the rhythms and sonic landscapes. Parkin’s vocal delivery occasionally brings the ‘Queen of Pop’ to mind, making the inclusion of a Madonna cover feel entirely fitting. It may be a bold choice, but “Burning Up” proves to be a delightful rendition that genuinely lifts the spirits.
Ayria plays to her strengths throughout ‘Vicious World’. Over the years, the Canadian artist has gained considerable experience and brought a new level of maturity to her songwriting. Combined with Seb Komor’s talents as a producer and arranger, the result is an EP that not only whets the appetite for the forthcoming album but also stands firmly on its own merits. (Rating:8).
Listen to “Vicious World”:
https://ayria.bandcamp.com/track/vicious-world-2
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