If you’re a fan of pop music, chances are you’ve heard of Billie Eilish. The 19-year-old sensation has taken the music world by storm with her unique sound, haunting lyrics, and captivating persona. Her debut album, “When We All Fall Asleep, Where Do We Go?”, released in 2019, has cemented her as one of the most influential artists of our time.
In this album review, we will dive deep into the eerie and introspective world of Billie Eilish’s “When We All Fall Asleep” and explore why it has captivated millions of listeners around the globe.
The Making of a Masterpiece
“To me, every song that I make is like a movie scene or a picture,” Eilish said in an interview with NME. This statement perfectly encapsulates the essence of “When We All Fall Asleep”. Each track is a vivid snapshot of Eilish’s creative mind, filled with symbolism, raw emotion, and impeccable production.
The album was co-written and produced by Eilish’s brother, Finneas O’Connell, who also serves as her closest collaborator. Together, the duo crafted an album that challenges traditional pop conventions and delves into darker, more vulnerable themes.
Track by Track Analysis
“!!!!!!!”
The opening track of the album features a recording of Eilish’s dentist asking her to “bite down.” It sets the tone for the rest of the album, immediately letting the listener know that they’re in for a unique experience. The track then leads into Eilish’s signature whispered vocals, accompanied by a distorted beat and cleverly placed samples.
“bad guy”
“Bad guy” needs no introduction. This smash-hit single became an instant sensation upon its release and remains one of Eilish’s most recognizable tracks. The song is a playful take on the villainous character in a relationship, with Eilish’s mesmerizing vocals serving as the perfect contrast to the sarcastic lyrics.
“xanny”
“Xanny” is a standout track on the album, tackling the issue of drug use among young people. The track is hauntingly beautiful, with Eilish’s soft vocals delivering powerful lyrics that shed light on the dangers of substance abuse.
“you should see me in a crown”
With its industrial beats and eerie vocals, “you should see me in a crown” is a prime example of Eilish’s ability to create a dark and unsettling atmosphere. The song’s lyrics are a direct reference to the popular TV show “Sherlock”, with Eilish embodying the cunning and manipulative Moriarty character.
“all the good girls go to hell”
This politically charged track takes a dig at those who refuse to acknowledge climate change and its devastating consequences. Eilish’s vocals are more aggressive and forceful in this song, perfectly complementing the boldness of the message she conveys.
“wish you were gay”
One of the most controversial tracks on the album, “wish you were gay” received mixed reactions upon its release. Some praised Eilish for her clever wordplay and storytelling, while others criticized the song for its potentially problematic lyrics. However, regardless of personal opinions, there’s no denying the catchiness of the track and its influence in pop culture.
“when the party’s over”
This emotionally charged ballad showcases Eilish’s vulnerable side, with her raw vocals and minimalist production creating an intimate listening experience. The song’s lyrics reflect on the feeling of being used and discarded after a party, evoking a sense of loneliness and melancholy.
“bury a friend”
The lead single of the album, “bury a friend” is a standout track that perfectly captures the album’s eerie and haunting vibe. The song’s lyrics are told from the perspective of a monster under the bed, with Eilish’s vocals embodying this dark and unsettling character.
“ilomilo”
The track “ilomilo” is an interesting addition to the album, with its quirky sound and playful lyrics. The title itself is derived from a popular video game, showcasing Eilish’s love for all things geeky and unconventional.
“listen before i go”
This emotionally charged ballad deals with the aftermath of a loved one’s suicide and the feelings of guilt and regret that come with it. Eilish’s poignant delivery of the lyrics makes this track one of the most heartbreaking moments on the album.
“i love you”
Another emotional ballad, “i love you” explores the complexities of love and relationships. Eilish’s raw and vulnerable vocals, accompanied by a simple piano melody, create a heart-wrenching listening experience.
“goodbye”
The final track of the album, “goodbye” serves as the perfect conclusion to this haunting masterpiece. With its distorted vocals and ethereal production, the song leaves the listener with a lingering feeling of unease, making them want to hit the replay button and dive back into the unique world of “When We All Fall Asleep”.
How to Experience “When We All Fall Asleep”
To truly appreciate the brilliance of “When We All Fall Asleep”, it’s essential to listen to the album in its entirety. Each track flows seamlessly into the next, creating a cohesive and immersive listening experience. It’s also crucial to pay attention to the lyrics and the subtle references and imagery used throughout the album.
Additionally, watching Eilish’s live performances of these songs adds another layer to the album. Her captivating stage presence and unique visuals enhance the overall experience and bring the songs to life in a new way.
Comparisons to Other Albums
“When We All Fall Asleep” has been compared to several iconic albums, such as Radiohead’s “OK Computer” and Nirvana’s “Nevermind”. These comparisons stem from the album’s unconventional sound and themes of isolation and alienation. However, Eilish’s debut album stands on its own, creating a unique and innovative sound that sets it apart from any other record.
Expert Advice
As an expert album reviewer, my advice for anyone looking to listen to “When We All Fall Asleep” is to approach the album with an open mind. It may not fit into traditional pop music norms, but that’s what makes it stand out. Also, pay attention to the lyrics and the subtle details in each track, as they add depth and meaning to the songs.
FAQs
Q: What inspired the album’s dark and eerie sound?
A: According to Eilish, her love for horror movies and TV shows, such as American Horror Story, heavily influenced the album’s vibe.
Q: Is there any significance behind the album’s title?
A: The album’s title is a lyric from the song “bury a friend”, which references Eilish’s recurring nightmares of falling through darkness.
Q: How does Eilish’s brother, Finneas, contribute to the album?
A: Finneas serves as the album’s co-writer and producer, adding his unique touch to Eilish’s creative vision.
Q: Are there any collaborations on the album?
A: No, all tracks on the album are solely written and performed by Billie Eilish and Finneas.
Q: Can we expect another album from Eilish in the future?
A: Yes, Eilish has confirmed that she is working on new music and hopes to release a new album soon.
Conclusion
In conclusion, “When We All Fall Asleep” is a haunting and introspective masterpiece that solidifies Billie Eilish’s place as one of the most influential artists of our time. From its unique sound to its thought-provoking lyrics, this album continues to captivate listeners and cement Eilish’s status as a pop icon. So, if you haven’t already, do yourself a favor and give “When We All Fall Asleep” a listen – you won’t regret it.
