Underscores' 'U' Album: A Hyperpop Auteur's Stunning Evolution
April Grey, the visionary US bedroom producer behind the moniker Underscores, has long captivated an eclectic fanbase that includes experimental pop duo 100 Gecs, rapper Danny Brown, and Blink-182 drummer Travis Barker. Yet, defining her sound has remained a challenge—until now. With her latest album U, Grey pares back her signature hyperpop electronics, delivering a cohesive, 90s pop-R&B-inspired masterpiece that reveals her as one of pop's most brilliant minds.
From Hyperpop Chaos to Refined Brilliance
Grey's earlier works, such as 2021's Fishmonger and the concept album Wallsocket, were sonic avalanches of distorted guitars, stammering vocal samples, brostep basslines, and hardcore punk drums. While thrilling, they occasionally overwhelmed listeners with their maximalist approach. U, however, represents a deliberate shift. The emo and punk influences have receded, replaced by the sleek, experimental spirit of late-90s R&B pioneers like Timbaland and the Neptunes.
The album opens with Tell Me (U Want It), where fizzing EDM synths, AutoTuned vocals, and horror-film whispers signal that Grey hasn't abandoned her love for intensity. Yet, a newfound restraint allows her songwriting to shine. Tracks like Bodyfeeling and Do It boast melodies so infectious that major pop stars would envy them—proof of Grey's skill as a genuine auteur who writes, performs, and produces every note herself.
A Nod to 90s R&B with a Modern Twist
U is steeped in the sonic palette of 90s R&B, but Grey avoids mere nostalgia. The bright acoustic guitar samples on Hollywood Forever and Wish U Well echo classics like No Scrubs, while Innuendo (I Get U) rides a spare, bumping rhythm reminiscent of Rodney "Darkchild" Jerkins' productions. These elements are deftly fused with dubstep electronics, pop-house beats, and chattering acid lines, creating a sound that feels both timeless and cutting-edge.
Lyrically, Grey simplifies her approach compared to Wallsocket's complex narrative. U explores love through witty, original conceits: The Peace traces a relationship via shared cigarettes, while Do It humorously ponders dating in the spotlight, asking, "Am I in your playlist? Do you have Spotify?" This focus on relatable themes, coupled with Grey's production prowess, makes the album her most accessible yet.
The Path Forward for an Independent Visionary
While U could propel Grey toward mainstream stardom, she seems content operating on her own terms. As a critically acclaimed artist in pop's leftfield, she retains full creative control, and this album proves her plan is working. U is a more interesting, accomplished, and better-written pop album than many major artists have released recently, showcasing Grey's growth without sacrificing her innovative edge.
In a music landscape where predictability reigns, Underscores' U stands out as a testament to artistic evolution. By dialing back the chaos and embracing 90s R&B influences, April Grey has crafted a record that not only honors her hyperpop roots but also solidifies her status as a songwriter and producer of extraordinary talent.
