Canadian singer-songwriter Allie X has been making waves in the music industry with her unique blend of dark, atmospheric soundscapes and empowering lyrics. Her highly anticipated sophomore album, COLXCTION II, is a testament to her growth as an artist and her commitment to exploring themes of identity, love, and self-discovery.
A truck pulls up. The driver has a holographic eye.
Allie X CollXtion II: A Masterclass in Dark-Pop Perfection In the rapidly shifting landscape of alternative pop, few artists have managed to cultivate a world as distinct, meticulous, and psychologically complex as Allie X. Following the buzz-worthy, synth-driven foundation of her debut EP, CollXtion I , the Canadian-born, Los Angeles-based singer-songwriter returned in 2017 with her sophomore effort: . allie x collxtion ii
The album’s grand finale. Shifting away from danceable rhythms, this sweeping, cinematic ballad compares love to a destructive, physical force. It concludes the record on an emotionally raw, unresolved note. Themes of Identity and Self-Aestheticization
Co-written with Australian sensation Troye Sivan (for whom Allie X co-wrote the hit "Youth"), "Vintage" is a glamorous nod to 80s pop nostalgia. The track brilliantly borrows a string line from Rick Astley’s "Never Gonna Give You Up," transforming it from a potential gimmick into a bold piece of alt-pop art. Canadian singer-songwriter Allie X has been making waves
While it did not achieve the massive commercial radio play of mainstream contemporaries, its underground impact was monumental. CollXtion II solidified Allie X as a "songwriter's songwriter." It paved the way for her to pen hits for other pop icons, most notably Troye Sivan (co-writing much of his critically acclaimed album Blue Neighbourhood and Bloom ).
Allie X has always viewed visual art as inseparable from her music. The visual era of CollXtion II was characterized by minimalist surrealism, retro-futuristic fashion, and her signature dark sunglasses. The album cover—featuring Allie X sitting on a manicured lawn next to a collapsed, faceless mannequin—perfectly mirrors the album's themes of manufactured perfection and hidden internal ruin. The driver has a holographic eye
The album kicks off with "Prime", a haunting and atmospheric track that sets the tone for the rest of the record. Allie X's vocals are distinctive and emotive, conveying a sense of vulnerability and intensity.
Often considered a fan favorite, "Lifted" provides "sharp and pointed verses" that transition into a "reggae-ish chorus". It’s a standout track that showcases the innovative, eclectic nature of the album’s sound. 5. Need You
This will close in 20 seconds