VIKTORIA XO - Sword Swallower
Self labeled as circus pop, VIKTORIA XO creates the chaotically catchy sound of dark bubblegum pop. “Sword Swallower” is the latest release of VIKTORIA XO’s small, growing discography. Sonically they are reminiscent of eccentric alternative pop artists such as Ashnikko and Melanie Martinez.
The instrumental of “Sword Swallower” sounds like a lullaby converted to a club melody. As the beat drops with both bass and VIKTORIA XO’s vocals, an almost eerie layer is added to the song’s atmosphere. Warm and inviting vocals used while mirrored with eye catching, dark pop lyrics creates an addicting listening experience.
Vocally VIKTORIA XO delivers both an ethereal singing performance as well as an easy to digest authentic rap performance. Furthermore, through creative lyrics, “Sword Swallower” is a poetic ear-worm bound to get stuck in your head with multiple relatable quotes.
On a deeper layer, “Sword Swallower” describes a toxic, abusive relationship. Referencing someone’s antagonizing words cutting like a blade has been done before, however VIKTORIA XO takes a creative reimagining on this concept converting it into a circus show allegory.
Throughout the song VIKTORIA XO describes a one-sided relationship dynamic. Giving everything for a partner who then solely takes and overreaches past boundaries. One powerful lyric being:
“misinterpret my words, tell me what I meant. All so I can fit your narrative”.
VIKTORIA XO newest song “Sword Swallower” is only the seventh release from this talented creative mind. Despite having an extremely polished sound and a modern mainstream appeal, VIKTORIA XO is still an underground artist. Each early fan helps water VIKTORIA XO’s garden of music as their art continues to grow and blossom.
If you enjoyed, “Sword Swallower”, check out deadEGO’s official Spotify playlist, EVERY song reviewed gets added to this playlist with the most recent review being the top song. (Only one song picked from album reviews)
