Album Review: “Smile! :D” by Porter Robinson
Porter Robinson has always been an artist unafraid to reinvent himself. From the explosive, bass-heavy sounds of the “Spitfire” EP to the introspective, emotional depth of “Nurture,” Robinson’s musical journey has been marked by bold transformations. With his latest album, “Smile! :D,” he takes another surprising turn, venturing into a new soundscape that blends electronic influences with indie pop and alternative elements.
Porter Robinson first captured the EDM scene’s attention with “Spitfire,” an EP characterized by aggressive beats and festival-ready energy. Tracks like “Unison” and “100% in the Bitch” defined this early phase of his career. However, his debut studio album, “Worlds,” showcased a significant artistic shift. Dissatisfied with the confines of traditional EDM, Robinson embraced a more melodic and emotional approach, influenced by anime, films, and ’90s video games. “Worlds” resonated with fans globally, offering a unique blend of electropop that felt nostalgic and fresh.
Following a seven-year hiatus, Robinson returned with “Nurture,” an album deeply rooted in personal experiences. The record dealt with themes of depression and creative block, marking another stylistic departure. “Nurture” saw Robinson embracing vulnerability, blending electronic sounds with heartfelt lyrics. Tracks like “Look at the Sky” and “Mirror” emphasized introspection and connection, with Robinson’s pitched-up vocals adding a childlike, hopeful quality to the music. This album was comforting, encouraging listeners to persevere and find hope.
With “Smile! :D,” Robinson continues his evolution. The album’s initial singles, “Cheerleader” and “Knock Yourself Out XD,” hinted at a hyperactive, bubbly electropop direction. However, the full album reveals a broader palette, incorporating indie pop, pop-punk, and acoustic elements. This eclectic mix may not satisfy EDM purists hoping for “Worlds 2.0” or die-hard “Nurture” fans expecting more of the same. Still, it underscores Robinson’s commitment to artistic freedom and self-expression.
The album’s tracklist is a journey in itself:
1. Knock Yourself Out XD
2. Cheerleader
3. Russian Roulette
4. Perfect Pinterest Garden
5. Years of the Cup
6. Kitsune Maison Freestyle
7. Easier to Love You
8. Mona Lisa (Featuring Frost Children)
9. Is There Really No Happiness?
10. Everything to Me
“Smile! :D” begins with high-energy tracks that echo Robinson’s earlier work. “Knock Yourself Out XD,” “Cheerleader,” and “Russian Roulette” are energetic heavy hitters. However, as the album progresses, it becomes more introspective and sincere. This shift in tone reflects Robinson’s internal journey, moving from trying to please everyone to focusing on personal fulfillment and artistic authenticity.
“Easier to Love You” stands out as a poignant reflection on aging and the gap between one’s aspirations and reality. The album’s humor also shines through, particularly in the track “Russian Roulette,” which ends with a primitive computer-generated voice critiquing dance-music clichés and offering a blunt piece of advice: “Don’t kill yourself, you idiot.”
Critically, the album’s pacing and structure may feel jarring on the first listen, with the energetic opening giving way to more subdued, reflective tracks. However, repeated listens reveal a coherent narrative arc. The spoken word sections in tracks like “Kitsune Maison Freestyle” and “Years of the Cup” may seem heavy-handed, but they contribute to the album’s thematic depth.
“Smile! :D” is a testament to Porter Robinson’s versatility and willingness to explore new artistic directions. While it may not immediately resonate with all fans, it is a bold and authentic addition to his discography. Much like “Nurture,” this album has the potential to grow on listeners over time, revealing new layers and emotional depths with each listen. Porter Robinson continues to prove that his music is as much about personal growth and exploration as it is about connecting with his audience.
Listen to Smile! 😀 on Spotify!
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