Album Review: Crystal Murray Redefines Alt-Pop with Debut Album 'Sad Lovers and Giants'

Crystal Murray's ascent in the music industry hits a new peak with her debut album, Sad Lovers and Giants. A Parisian native and IT girl, Crystal has been honing her style since her teenage years, seamlessly blending her passions for fashion and music. With this release, she solidifies her status as a true force in the industry.

Sad Lovers and Giants is a bold testament to Crystal Murray's evolution, offering listeners an immersive dive into her world of raw alt-pop brilliance. Among the standout tracks is "PAYBACK," a powerful anthem that encapsulates Crystal's unapologetic strength. The song's accompanying video, a collaboration with artistic director Stephy Galvani, is a visually striking masterpiece. Set on a battlefield and flanked by powerful women, the video symbolises solidarity and collective empowerment, adding rich layers to the track's narrative.

Then there's "STARMANIAK," a frenetic alt-pop banger for those who've felt walked over. Its addictive beats and assertive lyrics reinforce Crystal's knack for creating music that resonates deeply. It's a track that demands to be played loud, embodying resilience and defiance. "Air" is another gem on Sad Lovers and Giants, featuring scintillating production from Kyu Steed and Benjiflow. The ethereal sound design perfectly complements Crystal’s alluring vocals, pointing to the album's broader themes. It's a track that bridges the high-energy anthems with more introspective moments, showcasing Crystal’s vocal range and emotional depth.

Crystal Murray's journey as an artist began at just 15 with her debut EP, I Was Wrong. That early project laid the groundwork for her evolving sound. In 2022, she followed it with Twisted Bases, a ten-track exploration of youthful curiosity and messy dynamics. These formative works paved the way for Sad Lovers and Giants, a significant step forward in her artistic trajectory. Every song on Sad Lovers and Giants is a chapter of Crystal's life, filled with personal stories and emotional sincerity. From the end of first love to the beginning of womanhood, her lyrics capture the realisation of her voice's power and its potential to resonate. She embraces the full spectrum of emotions, acknowledging that feeling sad, manic, enraged, or obsessed is part of the life experience.

Crystal's fascination with duality and contradictions permeates her work, challenging conventions in her music and visuals. With Sad Lovers and Giants, she's not conforming to any mould but telling her truth. Having drawn inspiration from the likes of Massive Attack, Cocteau Twins, and Jeff Buckley. Their influence is evident in the album's fusion of R&B, pop, rock, and a newfound energy that Crystal had yet to explore. Sad Lovers and Giants is more than just an album; it's an artistic statement. Crystal Murray's relentless pursuit of self-expression shines through in every track, creating a deeply personal yet universally resonant experience. As she continues to evolve, Crystal pushes creative boundaries and challenges perceptions, solidifying her place as a dynamic force in the music industry.