I don’t even know the way to clarify how obsessed I’m with “Cute and Lethal.” Amanda Barise is actually all the things I wanted in my playlist proper now. Like… how is that this her first post-Idol launch and it already sounds prefer it needs to be in a Marvel trailer or the opening credit of a extremely costly drama about highly effective girls who lie for a residing? It’s giving darkish femme power. It’s giving boss period. It’s giving primary character.
The beat is ideal. It’s bought this laid-back vibe however nonetheless makes you wish to strut. Not dance — strut. Like, slow-mo hallway stroll, sun shades on, enemies behind you. You are feeling that power within the refrain: “I’m female, I’m cute and lethal.” She’s not enjoying. She’s reminding everybody that you would be able to slay in heels and nonetheless break hearts (or financial institution accounts).
And her VOICE. Amanda has this fashion of sounding candy and savage on the identical time. When she sings “I make this sh*t look straightforward,” I truly consider her. She does make it look straightforward. However she’s additionally telling you it wasn’t. And that’s actual. It’s so uncommon to listen to a track that really feels prefer it was written by the particular person singing it — not some random ghostwriter. You may inform she’s lived each lyric.
Additionally: that is the arrogance anthem for actually anybody who’s ever been doubted. I’ve performed this track on the point of exit. I’ve performed it strolling dwelling after ghosting somebody who didn’t deserve me. I even performed it earlier than a last examination, not gonna lie. It’s that versatile.
The manufacturing is clear however edgy. The little scat firstly? ICONIC. She went to jazz faculty so you understand she’s not simply out right here mumbling. She’s bought abilities. However she’s not displaying off. It’s like she’s saying, “Yeah, I’m educated… however I’m additionally chill.” Love that stability.
And the best way she claps again at haters in verse two — “they thought I wouldn’t make it / however now I actually am the one” — oof. You are feeling it. Like, you KNOW she remembers everybody who doubted her. And now she’s glowing up in actual time.
That is the beginning of Amanda’s villain origin story in one of the best ways. However like, the lovable villain. The femme fatale with a coronary heart. The woman who used to cry however now simply sings bangers and books gigs. I’m prepared for the EP. I’m prepared for the tour. I’m prepared for the merch. I would like the “Cute & Lethal” hoodie and a cellphone case and possibly a tattoo if my mother lets me.
Amanda Barise is right here and he or she’s not begging for approval — she’s commanding it. And I? Am absolutely, unapologetically right here for it.
Mindy McCall
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