Review Summary: Not chaotic at all. A satisfying listen.
Bubble gum, girly goth-pop that’s as sugary as ketchup? The art implies it with its young adult book cover motif. Glamorous goth glossiness is more surface level sadly, as Chaotic struggles to cut out its slice of cool bean cake with the cool modern pop crowd. A dash of bass, dark synths, and somewhat eery harmonizations occur — nothing to be spooked over. Chaotic involves light, princess pop. The album goes in a very predictable, snuggly blanket route. Expect pretty trees along the way, and when the ride is over it is over. You may think of it as a tamer Disneyland ride that follows a plot, but has less thrills or spills. Enjoyment ensues at the time, though an immediate echoing listen is unlikely.
The good: quite a bit. The singer tries her darndest to emulate successful singers like Ariana Grande and pop singers in general, with confidence and a swagger squeezed lilt to her voice — it works, her zest is palpable. The songs themselves are easy to get into but catchy, and the lady’s command whips tracks into shape. Synths have enough sparkle to be notable, yet don’t overstay their welcome. The bones are here, and the singer makes a meal out of them with the dispatch of a tigress.
Apparently there’s life beyond beats, synths, and simple pop production wizardry. Some may claim a lack of nuance to the gothic tinged pop style considering how many artists end up sounding the same, but Ellise’s brand is sugary enough to receive marks for distinction. Despite some somber lyrics, there’s a feeling of lightness and youthful energy about the music that the glittery production allows room to shine. It’s addictive stuff, and Ellise’s voice is pleasantly engaging.
Ellise’s pop style is take it or leave it. A little personality is included, but not enough to be an exceedingly memorable pop artist. The album is basic though done very well, and thus comes a slight recommendation. Whether moodier or more exuberant tracks, the music straps you in, as the next turn is eagerly awaited. Half the tracks bang off, and are worth wading through middling tracks to reach. Chaotic is catchy, it wears its heart on its sleeve, and ultimately is an impactful-enough album. The album itself may be hidden amongst the infinite swarms of girly pop being released, but its experience is not. With time, Ellise’s pop artistry may mature into something special, but for now, there’s enough of herself in the music to catch the ear.
