Just in time for Halloween, PVRIS has returned with a new project that invites us back into their ghostly world.
Their new EP, Hallucinations, is a collection of songs that were not all written at the same time. Some were written before PVRIS’ sophomore album was released two years ago, while others were written just this year. Frontwoman, Lynn Gunn, expressed, “This EP has a little taste of the distant past and recent past. It feels like a jumbled mess of playing catch-up. None of them are really connected to the other, there’s no rhyme or reason or hidden concepts, they’re simply songs that felt pure in the moment…” While she says that these songs are not connected, they all work together really well and continue to expand the PVRIS narrative.
Two of the EP’s tracks, “Hallucinations” and “Death of Me,” were released earlier this year. Some fans were not too fond of these tracks, saying that they were “too pop.” PVRIS, though, have always infused pop elements into their tracks – these just take things one step further. Filled with rhythmic beats, edgy vocals, and tormented lyrics, there is no mistaking these as classic PVRIS tracks. Their vivacious energy makes a lasting impression and will surely cause you to hit that “repeat” button.
A standout on the EP is the fourth track, “Things Are Better.” While it sounds like a morose piano ballad, it is actually more on the optimistic side. Lynn sings about how much better things are now that a certain person is no longer in her life. While it was hard to break away from this person, it was the right decision in the end. This lighter disposition is brought on by the chorus, where Lynn’s higher, more delicate vocals add an angelic quality to the track.
My favorite tracks are the remaining, “Nightmare” and “Old Wounds,” which happen to be two of the older tracks that were written three years ago. They have the same “pop” sound that we hear on “Hallucinations” and “Death of Me,” so they fit seamlessly with the newer tracks. One of the great things about PVRIS is that there is an undeniable sense of strength in their songs, even when the songs touch on feeling vulnerable or focus on upsetting situations. For instance, “Nightmare” and “Old Wounds” are about past relationships, but after you listen to them, you feel empowered – not brokenhearted.
Overall, this EP might not have been the easiest to make, but PVRIS should feel very good with what they have created. I can’t really pinpoint it, but there is something about this EP that reminds me of the PVRIS that we were introduced to five years ago. Meanwhile, there is something edgier about these tracks that showcases a new and improved PVRIS. No matter which PVRIS you prefer, or even if you are new to PVRIS, you are sure to love Hallucinations.
Keep up with PVRIS: Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // Website
