On her latest single, "I Threw A Party (Excuses)," the new pop firebrand debuts a sparkling beat-infused confessional that's just the right combination of mischief and charm. The song swells with a bloom of irregularities that sound as considered as they do impromptu, the musical equivalent of glitter bombs exploding in a living room no one bothered to sweep before guests arrived. The track recounts the kind of story we hate to acknowledge but can all relate to, throwing a party not for the partygoers, the vibes, or the playlist, but to "accidentally" run into that one individual who's stuck in your head the way the hook of your favorite tune is.
It's emotional vulnerability hidden behind flashing lights and neat distractions, and EVALINA gets the angle on that contradiction with a knowing wink. EVALINA is effortlessly magnetic, her tone playful yet with enough wistfulness to ensure you know this isn't a celebration. She's not acting cool, she's cool the way background noise is to a heart that continues to try and beat next to someone else's. The production plays into that narrative seamlessly, and is filled with surprising bleeps, claps, and clever about-faces that seemingly should come crashing down at any moment and never do.
Each layer contributes to the feeling that you're right there with her, attempting to act as if you're not having a terrible time as you scan the door, praying they will come. But what truly sets "I Threw A Party (Excuses)" apart is EVALINA's refusal to water herself down. This is a piece of somebody's real emotional chaos, presented with glitter and a sly grin. EVALINA made heartache a marathon dance, demonstrating once again that fun and feeling can coexist.