Maggie Andrew’s debut EP, DAY JOB, which is out now via turtlemusik, is an electrifying introduction to a Nova Scotian artist redefining the boundaries of what alt-pop is expected to be. With a sonic palette that seamlessly fuses punk irreverence, R&B’s smoky allure, indie rock grit, and melodic rap swagger, Andrew proves herself as an artist and songwriter who refuses to be boxed in a corner. The eight-track collection is a fearless exploration of self-discovery, emotional honesty, and raw vulnerability, all wrapped in Andrew’s sharp, commanding voice.
The EP’s title track, DAY JOB, sets the tone with its biting critique of societal expectations, balancing edgy guitars and shimmering synths in a way that feels both anthemic and deeply personal. It captures Andrew’s ethos: an artist reclaiming her narrative and refusing to settle.
“Better Than You” is the EP’s standout in sass and confidence. With its fiery guitars and snarky lyrics like, “Your favourite band is Walk Off The Earth, and I wish that you would push you off the edge if I could,” Andrew channels her unapologetic energy into a cathartic anthem for anyone who’s ever felt stifled by toxic relationships. It’s a bold track that solidifies her place as a voice for those who aren’t afraid to say what they think.
Following is the track, “Biting Ice Cream,” which radiates with summer heat and playful self-assurance with its hip-hop and pop bite. Coated in vibrant keys and layered vocals, it’s a track as confident as the grill Andrew wore when she wrote it. A perfect cruising song, it pairs infectious production with a sharp lyricism that oozes charisma.
In contrast, the song “Come Clean” dives into the emotional aftermath of betrayal. Its moody, cinematic soundscape of rain-soaked guitars and heavy trap drum beat perfectly mirrors the song’s lyrical depth while delivering an anthemic groove. The song is a hauntingly beautiful moment of vulnerability that showcases Andrew’s range both as a vocalist and songwriter.
Tracks like “Hurt Myself” and “Time in Space,” which features the Palestinian hip-hop artist BASYL, reveal Andrew’s ability to balance introspection with innovation. The former explores self-sabotage with aching honesty, while the latter delves into escapism, set against a dreamy yet driving backdrop.
The EP's penultimate track, “That Bitch,” embodies the biting attitude and genre-blurring creativity that defines Maggie Andrew’s entire sound. Sonically, it blurs the lines of pop and hip-hop with rock elements sprinkled in. Lyrically, it's a celebration of self-possession and individuality, leaving listeners empowered and eager for more. The EP’s focus track, and the EP's latest single, “About Us.” closes the EP on a high note, and is a poignant reflection on love and loss, balancing lush melodies with Andrew’s emotive vocal delivery. It’s the perfect centrepiece for a record that thrives on its emotional authenticity.
DAY JOB is a masterclass in versatility and authenticity. Maggie Andrew’s debut EP isn’t just an introduction—it’s a declaration. She wears her heart on her sleeve while wielding a sharp wit, ensuring each track leaves a lasting impression. With its fearless genre experimentation and unflinching songwriting, DAY JOB establishes Maggie Andrew as a vital voice in the modern alt-pop landscape.
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