WRITTEN BY CHERRYLLE URBANO
SOFIA ISELLA's newest EP, I Can Be Your Mother, is the ultimate experience. Words cannot describe how my little writer heartfeltly listens to her music. One of my favorite kinds of poetry is the one that forces you to feel something and shakes you to your core. This album radiates that kind of energy. This is how I feel a poet would make music—it’s raw, poetic, and deeply evocative.
I first discovered ISELLA on TikTok, where I saw her perform “The Doll People,” a hauntingly disturbing track that immediately piqued my interest. I dove into her other songs and realized she recently released an EP. From the very first track, "The Well," it was clear that SOFIA ISELLA’s talent is something you cannot disagree with. The song opens with a cinematic, orchestral intro, building slowly with just a violin, as if it was a light, before becoming intense. It's a masterful introduction that showcases her impressive range and musical versatility.
Next comes “Sex Concept,” a dark exploration of love, obsession, and the complexities of human relationships. ISELLA’s lyrics here are sharp and visceral, showcasing her storytelling prowess. As the song progresses, orchestral elements return, echoing the themes from "The Well" and tying the two tracks together. Then the tone shifts with the more subdued “Unattractive.” The lyrics here tackle the painful subject of unrealistic beauty standards and the way it slowly eats away at one's self-worth. This track hit me hard, resonating with anyone who's ever struggled with societal and unrealistic beauty expectations. I found myself sinking deeper into the emotion of it, as the music and lyrics tugged at my heart.
But it was “The Doll People” that truly introduced me to ISELLA’s unique artistry. The song has a haunting, unsettling vibe, and even the TikTok performance left me with an eerie sense of discomfort. It’s a fierce commentary on objectification, gender roles, and the dehumanization of women. If I had to compare it to a work of art, it would be Anna Uddenberg’s "Continental Breakfast"—a piece that challenges perceptions and forces you to confront uncomfortable truths. "The Doll People" remains, without a doubt, my favorite track on this EP.
The title track, “I Can Be Your Mother,” is a lyrical masterpiece. SOFIA ISELLA’s poetic verses are brilliant—her ability to transform emotions into tangible imagery is nothing short of genius. The song delves into the struggle for control and attention, examining the complex relationship between performer and audience, power and submission. It's about the internal battle between wanting to please and wanting to rebel.
SOFIA ISELLA is gaining traction for a reason. As a composer and songwriter, she’s one of the most exciting artists to emerge. Her music moves you, shakes you, and challenges you to feel everything, deeply. If you haven't already, I highly recommend checking her out—this EP is a journey worth taking.