With her newest song, "Messed Up," Melbourne singer-songwriter Jess Ball once again demonstrates why she continues to be a force to be reckoned with in the alt-pop world, stripping away the layers of vulnerability that we all hold so dear when it comes to wanting something we can't have. It's all too real in a world where we're all navigating our own problems. "Messed Up" unlocks a relatable emotional feeling. Her lyrics delve into the elements of obsession, longing, and self-inflicted heartache that often accompany them.
But don't be deceived by its emotional gravity, the track finds a balance between vulnerability and a confident production. Jess's commanding vocals flow over a slinky, dark-pop beat that bursts with subdued energy. It's the kind of song you cry to in your car, just to go through it all over again. What distinguishes "Messed Up" is not just its relatability, but also its unapologetic honesty. Jess doesn't claim to have the answers or persuade us that there is a fairytale ending. She embraces the messiness.
It's not the first time Jess has turned to her music to shine a light on emotional grey areas, but "Messed Up" feels like a further level of maturity in her songwriting. Whether you're experiencing it firsthand or recalling a spiral you once vowed never to spiral again, "Messed Up" hits the nerve just right. It's heartbreak you can dance to, and that's a special kind of magic. With "Messed Up," Jess Ball further cements her place in pop's landscape, one heartstring-pulling track at a time.