Multi-talented rising rock-star Maggie Lindemann starts 2024 with a dynamic set of 8 songs on her new EP, HEADSPLIT. This project is her first comeback since her 2022 debut album, SUCKERPUNCH, which established her voice and vision as an eclectic pop-punk, rock, and alt-metal queen. HEADSPLIT delivers diverse messages, from anxiety to catharsis, to questioning reality, to being achingly in love with someone. Each track off the EP is laden with raw emotional and musical intelligence, creating a heart-piercing symphony.
Two of the tracks, “deprecating ft. siiickbrain” and “hostage” acted as the lead singles of the EP, released in mid-January. The former is a confident, venomous, lucid nightmare (as the lyrics describe), featuring trap elements that may remind fans of “Scissorhands.” The latter is about the trapping effects of anxiety, characterized by a stuttering guitar riff and lyrics which beg, “be patient with me.”
HEADSPLIT starts with “rip my heart out.” It begins ballad-like, with an ethereal, ambient piano where Maggie croons, “foreign feelings, wounds are healing.” The pace quickens with some heavier guitar and percussion in the chorus section. The high-contrast sections of this song seem to represent an intense love story.
Next is “die for,” which explores the cloudy relationship between pain and love. It is a full-sounding declaration of commitment with a rumbling bass. She repeats, “hold onto me now…”
“You hold my love” follows softly. It is the most delicate song on the EP with graceful orchestral and operatic touches. The track introduces a fun surprise of video-gamey, jungle components. Overcome with emotion, Maggie sings, “the love I feel for you is alarming.”
Picking up the energy again is “one last time,” where she discusses the inner turmoil of past relationships and anxiety. She personifies her regrets as “the reaper,” who she says keeps knocking in her mind. The song leaves a lasting image of how it feels to hold onto things that may no longer serve you.
“24 ft. alexis munroe” plays next, the second of three songs on HEADSPLIT with a feature. Over a growling guitar and punchy kickdrum, the duo question their lives and comment on how they are perceived at their age. In the first verse Maggie points out, “at 16 a perfect angel, then 30 you’re turning fatal.” Relatable and real, the track is like a page out of almost any young woman’s journal.
Lastly, “taking over me ft. jasiah” is the final act of the EP. This song is high-octane from the first second, beginning with abrasive instrumentals and guttural yells. The lyrics express the haunting nature of anxiety, paranoia, and mood swings.
Maggie Lindemann overall is an artist to watch as she boldly moves forward. Experience the power project that is HEADSPLIT now by streaming on Spotify and Apple Music!
Also, be sure to check out Maggie Lindemann’s clothing brand, SWIXXZ.
Leave a comment