First of all, if you are not familiar with Model/Actriz, I would like to be you, because their blend of abrasive Noise Rock with Dark-Wave and Industrial twists has a fresh sound that either pulls you in or completely repels you! In my opinion, that is one of the highest compliments you can give an artist, because I don’t believe in lukewarm sounds… those are the antithesis of what art should be.
On the other hand, discovering an artist like them reminds me why I listen to so many playlists filled to the brim with so many songs I ultimately don’t enjoy, because it brings me back to the mere fact that there is no greater feeling than falling in love with a new sound… something that, in my opinion, happens only a few times in a lifetime, ain’t it?
Pirouette builds tension throughout its soundscape journey. It makes you a bit anxious, but mostly envious — moreso lustful, perhaps — as if desire is consuming you from within. There’s certainly a psychological depth in the album.
The energy in the song “Cinderella” immediately caught my attention, and if I remember correctly, I discovered the video on the BrooklynVegan Weekly playlist. The industrial drum tension and drone-like sound waves are literally hypnotic here, and the musical chaos in certain sections of the song is definitely unsettling—creating a compelling sense of discomfort.
The song “Diva” also drew my attention with its subtle horror vibe. It was the third single from the album, and the guitar sound, blended with a Thom Yorke-like vocal performance, convinced me 100% that this is an up-and-coming album that will pull me deeply into their musical world.
One of the key tracks for me is “Acid Rain”, as it really stands out. It’s more relaxing, and just after the almost interlude-like “Headlights, I sensed a moment of letting go in the album—the tension drops. There is a beautiful melancholy in the melody, but it also carries a certain catharsis.
The end of the album moves back into a more club-like direction. My only minor critique is that it occasionally feels a bit repetitive, but overall, I really enjoy the energy conveyed in their upbeat tracks, which must be quite impressive to experience live.
“Baton is a beautiful way out of their chaotic journey, with sonic sound waves surrounding the end of the song. The melody is highly moving and emotionally driven, while the lyrics seem to express gratitude toward loved ones who may have been present during a more difficult period.
My take on this… in the midst of challenges, are we truly grateful to the people who “recall things we’ve forgotten”? Maybe who we are… or what we have done… maybe the good, maybe the bad… but surely what’s real.
“You’ve been the narrator / When you recall things I’ve forgotten / It can feel strange knowing I’ve been a person / Like you are to me, sister”
