Molly Nilsson - Extreme (2022)

By the time of her 2022 album Extreme, Molly Nilsson had been turning out perfectly made neo-synth pop records built on exquisitely moody melodies, majestically sweeping synths, and beautifully deadpan vocals for over a decade. Each release fit perfectly within the chilly and somewhat bleak world she had created like a frozen Lego block. The release of 2018's Twenty Twenty found her loosening up the confines of that precisely rendered sound, making way for a little bit of optimism, some softer synths, and even songs that crept up to the edges of pop. She continues to expand on Extreme, adding distorted guitars, tropical pop synth pads, and piano while exploring new genres like hip house, glittery '90s pop, and even a love song. It's definitely the most diverse record she's made yet, both musically and emotionally. There are newfound moments of empowerment, like on "Avoid Heaven"; songs where she comes across defiant and punky ("They Will Pay); and, on the gently rollicking piano ballad "Take Me to Your Leader," almost traditionally romantic. Pairing these new moods with the abrupt genre jumps makes for an almost jarring experience for those who had fully bought into Nilsson's previous approach. It's a big point in her favor that once the shock of songs like the almost metallic "Absolute Power" -- which comes complete with blown-out power chords and stuttering drum fills -- or the waiting-room smooth "Obnoxiously Talented" wears off, what's left is appreciation for the big swing she takes here. Nine times out of ten she nails it, and the ninth time comes pretty close. That call depends on how one feels about romantic piano ballads. Anyway, the sparklingly poppy '80s teen comedy rocker "Earth Girls" makes up for any misgivings one might have about that one little misstep. It's rare that an artist takes chances like this at any point during their career, much less after so much time has been invested creating and refining their approach. It's even rarer that it works this well. Sprinkling some sunlight and variety into her melancholy musical mix proves to be a magical move, and Extreme is both Nilsson's most interesting album and a striking reboot.