Archie – 613 [EP]
Released: September 2019
Pop
R&B
Seattle is not really known for pop music, but that doesn’t mean there are absolute talents bringing their all in the genre, like local musician Archie. She’s only released only two EPs so far (one under the name PSA), but both are right bangers and indicate a wealth of potential. Her most recent work, the four-song 613 released last September, does everything a great pop EP does: focus in on a style while keeping the variety fresh and the quality control über-tight. Its clear highlight is the DoNormaal-featuring “Bad Bitch”, which boasts an uplifting playfulness, retro double-layered vocals and a killer hook on the chorus. DoNormaal, as usual, kills the verse, riding the beat all the way to its perilous edge. The other standout track, the two-part “Machete (Song for Jackson)”, simmers in an atmospheric trap beat before screwing down and switching into a propulsive coda. Besides these, 613’s pleasant bookends are there to show off the shape of Archie’s voice. Of these two, the piano-led “Clarity” is stronger (“Summation” cuts off a little too quickly) but both are solid proof of Archie’s ability to curve her voice around her words. 613 is succinct and demonstrative of a pop talent waiting in the wings for a wider audience.
Lives in Seattle, terrible diet, loves music, has hope for people