Olivia Millin’s debut LP, “Start Again,” is nothing short of a high-energy, feel-good explosion of pop brilliance! At only 20, Millin has crafted an album that’s as refreshingly bold as it is mature, turning raw vulnerability into an anthem for anyone ready to seize a new beginning.
Right from the start, the opener “Be With Me” bursts with an irresistible call for unity and self-love. With tender lyrics set against an upbeat pop backdrop, Millin effortlessly bridges her Japanese roots with Western pop influences—combining the rebellious spark of rock with an infectious pop sensibility that invigorates every listener.
The title track, sung in both Japanese and English, is a true standout. It delivers a vibrant mix of language and textures that feels experimental yet accessible—a daring nod to her influences while boldly carving out her own distinctive sound. Millin isn’t just emulating the styles of prominent acts like Yoasobi or Atarashii Gakkou; she’s reinventing them, weaving heartfelt confession with a thumping rhythm that pulses with city energy and youthful passion.
Songs like “Enter/Exit” and “TTYL” add an extra layer of fun and insight to the record. “Enter/Exit” plays with themes of fleeting connections, infusing a sense of playful irony and modern cool, while “TTYL” cuts through digital noise with lyrics that remind us of the beauty and depth of genuine, meaningful exchanges. It’s like a modern-day shout-out to the punk rock poets—but with a pop twist that makes it impossible not to groove along.
Link Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bAkCbcQxNlY
Perhaps the most electrifying moment is found in “The Flood,” a track that masterfully navigates a spectrum from minimalist, rainy piano chords to a sweeping surge of percussion. It’s a powerful anthem of isolation transforming into renewal, packing a punch of heartfelt energy that lifts the album from mere soundscape to artistic triumph. With production that’s sleek yet spirited, Millin achieves the rare feat of balancing ambition with raw emotion, making every beat count.
Throughout “Start Again,” Millin pays homage to rock’s revolutionary spirit—rebellious, insistent, and ever ready to push against the norm. Yet it’s her fearless blend of diverse styles and languages that makes the album shine. With a dazzling ability to shift from intimate introspection to explosive, anthemic choruses, Millin delivers an album that’s as unpredictable as it is energizing—capturing the experimental spirit of rock and infusing it with the vibrant pulse of global pop sensibilities.
In today’s world of safe, formulaic tunes, “Start Again” stands out as a brilliant burst of innovation and heart. Olivia Millin defies labels—she’s a pop star, a cultural trailblazer, and a provocateur all at once, urging us to celebrate every new beginning with passion and enthusiasm. For anyone eager for music that’s not just catchy but also a call to action, “Start Again” is your ticket to a world where every end sparks an exciting new start!