girl in red returns with a newfound optimism in “I'm Doing It Again Baby!”
The question “Do you listen to girl in red?” has become a subtle code within the queer community, truly asking, “Are you a girl who likes girls?” Marie Ulven, better known as girl in red, has become a lesbian icon after releasing sapphic anthems like “i wanna be your girlfriend” and “we fell in love in october.” Her second album, I’M DOING IT AGAIN BABY! arrives after a hiatus, comprised of ten tracks showcasing her journey back to music.
In the stripped-back opening track, “I'm Back,” Ulven opens up about struggling with her mental health. With poignant lyricism, she confronts her tendency towards sadness and the impact it has had on her life. Lines like “Living life in gray did something to my brain” capture the weight of depression, while the simple declaration “But, hey, I took a shower today” signifies small victories amidst the darkness. “I'm Back” sets the tone for the album, serving as a vulnerable statement of resilience.
Transitioning from quiet contemplation to infectious energy, the title track “DOING IT AGAIN BABY” bursts with playful experimentation. Here, Ulven tries out a pop-punk sound, marked by catchy melodies and a killer bass line. The song radiates with confidence as Ulven delivers cheeky lyrics like "Got the Japanese denim and loafers on my feet/Looking like a rockstar from the s-s-seventies." The production takes risks with unique elements like an aggressive banjo in the bridge, adding depth to the track.
girl in red returns to her signature bedroom pop style in “Too Much.” Here, Ulven reflects on the experience of being told she's "too much" when she expresses happiness or excitement. Despite the somber tone, there's a sense of defiant confidence in Ulven's delivery, emphasizing the importance of embracing oneself unapologetically.
Photo by Jonathan Kise
“Phantom Pain” continues the themes of romantic troubles, mourning a relationship that never was. With simple lyricism, Ulven sings of heartbreak from something that hasn’t happened, like a phantom pain. As the song progresses, the intensity builds, culminating in a distorted outro where Ulven passionately chants, “Let me love you, hit me/Let me, let me love you if you love me.”
Featuring Sabrina Carpenter, “You Need Me Now?” is a definite highlight, exuding pure confidence. Ulven and Carpenter's vocals complement each other seamlessly, delivering powerful lyrics that confront toxic relationships head-on, such as, “I'm tired of waiting around/Letting you let me down/I'm done being yours.” Abruptly switching gears into a more mellow and introspective tone, “A Night To Remember” explores the fleeting nature of romantic encounters. While ultra-romantic with lyrics like, “The moment I met her/I met the rest of my life,” the constant tempo changes could cause whiplash.
Closing the album on a high note, “★★★★★” transports listeners to another era. Despite its modern production, the track is filled with nostalgic references to the 60s with lyrics like, “Sittin' in the lobby at the Chelsea hotel/Lookin' for a stranger with a story to tell.” As the album draws to a close, Ulven both references the album title and teases the possibility of future endeavors, repeatedly asking “Can I do it again?”
I’M DOING IT AGAIN BABY! is a refreshing album that takes risks, blending Ulven's indie pop roots with gritty punk sounds. While the album's first half shines with colorful confidence, the back-and-forth between tempos throughout the rest can make it feel less cohesive. Nevertheless, Ulven's happiness radiates through each song, even if moments of saccharine sweetness detract from the lyricism. Ultimately, it's the upbeat tracks where girl in red truly shines, showcasing her growth and unwavering commitment to self-expression.