Allie X Collxtion Ii !!better!!
Here’s a critical review of Allie X’s CollXtion II (2017), the follow-up to her CollXtion I EP.
Allie X – CollXtion II: Darker, Bolder, and Unapologetically Theatrical
If CollXtion I introduced Allie X as synth-pop’s mysterious, wounded heroine, CollXtion II finds her sharpening her claws. The 2017 album—technically her debut full-length but treated as the second installment of the CollXtion series—is a tighter, more aggressive work. It retains her signature blend of 80s neon nostalgia and melancholic lyricism, but pushes the production into darker, more industrial territory.
3. Track-by-Track Narrative Analysis
8. Casual Satisfaction
The thesis statement. Allie X has stated this is her favorite song on the record. It asks the question: In a world of dating apps and fleeting fame, is anything real? The robotic chorus—"Just a little bit of casual satisfaction"—is intentionally hollow, critiquing how we’ve commodified intimacy.
“Need You” – The Desperate Plea
The album’s emotional nadir. A piano ballad that builds to a string-laden crescendo, “Need You” strips away all irony. The protagonist admits she cannot function without her toxic partner—not because she loves him, but because she has no internal regulation. “I don’t need a lot / I just need you” is not romantic; it’s pathological. The raw vocal take (you can hear her breath catch on the second chorus) breaks the album’s usual polished surface. It is the only moment where the performance cracks, revealing the real person beneath the persona.
Essay: Allie X — CollXtion II and the Art of Reinvention
Allie X’s CollXtion II is more than a sophomore EP; it is a refined statement of identity, a bridge between an underground alt-pop auteur and a pop auteur primed for mainstream collision. Released in 2017 as the follow-up to her conceptual CollXtion I, CollXtion II translates the theatrical persona Allie X cultivated into tighter songwriting, lustrous production, and sharper thematic focus. Across its concise runtime, the EP interrogates fame, technology, intimacy, and self-fashioning with a glossy melancholy that feels both futuristic and intimately human.
Stylistically, CollXtion II preserves the cold neon sheen that defines much of Allie X’s catalog while embracing a warmer melodic accessibility. Producer collaborations yield an electronic palette that ranges from shimmering synth-pop to dark electro and polished alt-pop balladry. The EP’s soundscape is characterized by crystalline arpeggios, punchy drum programming, and layers of harmonies that elevate hooks into haunting refrains. The production serves Allie X’s principal strength: her ability to meld pop craftiness with conceptual depth.
Lyrically, CollXtion II explores modern anxieties through the language of celebrity and constructed identity. Tracks often read as diary-entries translated into performative monologues—statements that simultaneously confess and strategize. There is an acute awareness of surveillance and curation: relationships are mediated by screens, emotions are commodified, and the self is something to be assembled. Yet the EP resists cynicism by allowing vulnerability to coexist with calculated performance. The result is a portrait of a persona who recognizes the artifice around her but still longs for connection that feels authentic.
A standout trait of CollXtion II is its economy. Each song feels deliberately placed; motifs recur in different emotional registers so the EP holds together as a compact narrative cycle. Hooks land without sacrificing nuance; choruses are immediate but layered with lyrical double meanings. This balance of immediacy and intricacy is emblematic of Allie X’s songwriting—she writes for the ear while inviting analysis for the mind.
Vocally, Allie X navigates the material with a compelling aloofness that often melts into intimacy. Her delivery can be icily detached—amplifying themes of performance and control—or it can crack just enough to reveal human fragility beneath the glamour. This dynamic approach ensures the persona never becomes a caricature; instead, it reads as a deliberate, multi-faceted identity under construction.
Culturally, CollXtion II sits at an intersection: it appeals to listeners who prize pop hooks and those who seek conceptual ambition. In an era of hyper-curated online identities, Allie X offers a mirror—one that is stylized and slightly distorted but nonetheless reflective. The EP asks what authenticity means when every gesture can be edited, filtered, and monetized. Rather than providing answers, it stages these questions as pop performances, prompting reflection through melodic allure.
In sum, CollXtion II demonstrates Allie X’s maturation as an artist who can fuse meticulous pop songwriting with performative critique. It is an agile, stylish work that rewards both casual listening—thanks to its earworm melodies—and close attention to its thematic architecture. For fans and newcomers alike, CollXtion II offers an evocative snapshot of an artist who treats pop music not simply as entertainment but as a tool for self-examination and reinvention.
Allie X's CollXtion II is a masterclass in dark, hyper-stylized synth-pop that explores themes of addiction, self-destruction, and the "power of X". Released in June 2017, the album serves as a more diverse and experimental counterpart to her debut, CollXtion I, blending accessible pop melodies with unsettling, "twisted" lyrical edges. A Soundscape of "Supercharged Bubblegum"
The album’s production is described as "supercharged bubblegum pop" with "larger-than-life" instrumentals. It leans heavily on light synth progressions and polished musical backdrops, ranging from glamorous '80s vibes to "pop-trap" and Caribbean-reggae undertones.
Key Production Elements: Whistle tones, obvious basslines, and meticulous vocal command that transitions between smooth, sweet mid-tones and soaring highs.
Atmosphere: Critics note a "creepiness lurking underneath" the melodic production, describing the sound as "Halloween in the middle of summer". Core Themes and Lyrical Depth
CollXtion II is more than just a pop record; it is a conceptual exploration of identity and pain.
Allie X - CollXtion II review by Silver_Castle - Album of The Year
Released on June 9, 2017, CollXtion II is the debut studio album by Canadian artist
. Described by Allie herself as a study of "longing and being lost," the record navigates the fragmented reclamation of identity through the lens of pain, trauma, and self-destructive habits. Thematic Core: The Fragmented Self
The album serves as a multimedia experience, originally planned as the second of five "CollXtions" that included "X Visuals" (GIFs) and an abstract autobiographical comic. Identity Reclamation
: Allie views each song as a "piece" of herself—some memories, some dreams, and some interpretations of reality. The "X" Variable
: The "X" in her name represents a tool to fill empty spaces and reclaim identity, providing "permission to be anything". Visual Symbolism
: The cover art features Allie in a dunce cap, representing shame and embarrassment, while the blocks she holds symbolise the juvenile, stuck feeling of trying to piece one's self together. Track-by-Track Breakdown
Critics and fans alike view the album as a rollercoaster of "supercharged bubblegum pop" mixed with dark, minimal synths. we plug good music "Paper Love"
: A metaphor for a fragile, toxic relationship that "rips you apart like paper". It marks her first use of a "pop drop," built around a guitar riff and whistle tone. : Co-written with Troye Sivan
, this track uses nostalgia to mask a darker history of submission and feeling "buried alive". "Need You" (feat. Valley Girl)
: A sonically minimal power ballad exploring denial and the inability to let go of a past relationship. "Casanova"
: Features vocally experimental "sing-talking" and describes an irresistible attraction to a player, where pleasure barely outweighs the pain.
: An anthem for escapism and substance use as a psychological crutch to "not touch the floor". "Simon Says"
: One of the most complex tracks, doubling as a story about a controlling lover or an imaginary friend/voice in the head that only the narrator can see. "Old Habits Die Hard"
: An exploration of addiction to abusive patterns that are "in my muscle memory and in my bones". "That's So Us"
: A rare moment of lightness celebrating the "weird" quirks shared in a long-term friendship or relationship. "Downtown"
: A raw look at wanting to be used to feel a "certain kind of high," accepting domination as a substitute for real love. "True Love Is Violent"
: A piano-driven closer that uses water motifs (storms, capsizing) to illustrate the turbulent cycle of abusive love. Production and Style Minimalism : Unlike the "river of sounds" in her earlier work like CollXtion I
, this album prioritised a punchier, stripped-back sound with more live elements like guitar. Collaborative Process : While produced primarily by Jordan Palmer
, Allie wrote many of the core tracks alone in Canada to avoid the "LA machine" style of songwriting. Fan Involvement : The project was preceded by CollXtion II: Ʉnsolved
, where Allie released demos and voice memos to let fans help shortlist the final tracklist. in her "X Visuals" GIFs or see the tracklist differences between the era and the final release?
Introducing Allie X's COLXCTION II: A Sonic Exploration of Identity and Empowerment allie x collxtion ii
Canadian singer-songwriter Allie X has been making waves in the music industry with her unique blend of dark, atmospheric soundscapes and empowering lyrics. Her highly anticipated sophomore album, COLXCTION II, is a testament to her growth as an artist and her commitment to exploring themes of identity, love, and self-discovery.
COLXCTION II is the follow-up to Allie X's debut EP, COLXCTION I, which introduced fans to her distinctive style and garnered critical acclaim. The new album promises to take listeners on a journey of self-exploration, delving deeper into the complexities of the human experience. With its eclectic blend of electronic, pop, and R&B influences, COLXCTION II is an immersive listening experience that showcases Allie X's versatility and artistry.
The Evolution of Allie X
Born Alexandra Ashley Hughes, Allie X began her music career in her teenage years, performing in local bands and experimenting with songwriting. Her early work was marked by a DIY ethos, with lo-fi productions and introspective lyrics that explored themes of love, heartbreak, and growing up. As she honed her craft, Allie X began to develop a distinctive sound that blended elements of electronic music, pop, and avant-garde styles.
Her breakthrough came with the release of COLXCTION I, which gained traction on online platforms and caught the attention of music industry insiders. The EP's lead single, "Catch" (feat. Gramatik), became a viral hit, and Allie X found herself touring with prominent artists and performing at major festivals.
COLXCTION II: A Deeper Dive
COLXCTION II represents a significant artistic leap for Allie X, with a more refined production style and lyrics that tackle complex themes with greater nuance. The album's title, COLXCTION II, reflects Allie X's fascination with the concept of collection and curation. For her, the term represents the act of gathering fragments of identity, experiences, and emotions to create a cohesive sense of self.
Throughout the album, Allie X explores the tensions between vulnerability and empowerment, often using her lyrics to confront and subvert societal expectations. Tracks like "Bones" and "Prime" showcase her ability to craft infectious, dance-oriented pop songs with a darker edge, while "Old Habits" and "Penumbra" demonstrate her skill at crafting atmospheric, introspective ballads.
Lyrical Themes and Inspiration
At its core, COLXCTION II is an album about navigating the complexities of identity and relationships. Allie X draws inspiration from her own experiences, as well as those of the people around her, to craft lyrics that are both personal and universally relatable.
The album's lead single, "Beau", is a prime example of this approach. The song's lyrics explore the fragility of relationships and the masks we wear to conceal our true selves. With its pulsing beat and haunting vocal delivery, "Beau" sets the tone for an album that is both sonically adventurous and emotionally intense.
Production and Collaborations
COLXCTION II features a range of collaborators, including producers and songwriters who have helped shape Allie X's distinctive sound. Notable contributors include Gramatik, Bloodshy, and Stars-2-Shit, among others.
The album's production is characterized by a blend of electronic and organic elements, with lush synthesizers, driving beats, and atmospheric textures. Allie X's vocal delivery is equally impressive, showcasing her remarkable range and expressiveness.
Reception and Impact
COLXCTION II has been eagerly anticipated by fans and critics alike, with many praising Allie X's bold artistic vision and lyrical candor. Upon its release, the album has received widespread critical acclaim, with publications like Pitchfork, NME, and Rolling Stone praising its sonic innovation and emotional depth.
The album's impact extends beyond the music itself, with Allie X using her platform to promote themes of self-empowerment, inclusivity, and mental health awareness. Her commitment to these causes has earned her a devoted fan base and recognition within the music industry.
Conclusion
COLXCTION II is a triumph for Allie X, a bold and imaginative album that cements her status as a rising star in the music world. With its rich sonic landscapes, introspective lyrics, and commitment to themes of identity and empowerment, this album is sure to resonate with listeners for years to come.
As Allie X continues to evolve and push the boundaries of her art, fans can expect even more innovative and thought-provoking music from this talented young artist. With COLXCTION II, Allie X has proven herself to be a visionary and fearless creative force, one who will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on the music world.
Released on June 9, 2017, CollXtion II is the debut full-length studio album by Canadian singer-songwriter Allie X. Often described as a "supercharged bubblegum pop" record with a dark, unsettling edge, it serves as a polished successor to her 2015 debut EP, CollXtion I. The "Unsolved" Era & Fan Collaboration
One of the most unique aspects of the album's creation was the CollXtion II: Ʉnsolved project. Starting in May 2016, Allie X shared a series of demos and one-takes via a Spotify playlist, inviting her "X" fan community to help shortlist which tracks should make the final cut for the studio album. This interactive process resulted in a 10-track LP that felt both experimental and deeply curated by the artist and her listeners. Tracklist & Sound Profile
The album blends slick Billboard and Cirkut production with Allie X's sharp, "sugary-voiced" vocals. WPGM Recommends: Allie X - CollXion II (Album Review)
’s debut studio album, CollXtion II , released on June 9, 2017, marked a definitive shift from her "enigmatic puppet" persona into a more polished and confident pop force. Following her 2015 EP CollXtion I
, this full-length project was the culmination of a unique collaborative process where fans helped shape the tracklist through the CollXtion II: Unsolved Core Themes and Sound The album explores themes of
identity loss, self-destruction, and the reclamation of self
. Musically, it is rooted in dark, 80s-inspired synth-pop, blending "liquid gold" vocals with gritty, theatrical production. "Paper Love"
: The album's breakout single, described by Allie X as a "fragile and violent" romantic situation that "hurts so good". "Casanova"
: A high-energy "bop" that has become a staple of her discography. "True Love Is Violent"
: A haunting, lullaby-adjacent closer that emphasizes the album’s darker emotional undercurrents. Critical Reception
Allie X: Unpacking the Dark, Moody World of COLLXTION II
Canadian singer-songwriter Allie X has been making waves in the music scene with her unique blend of dark, moody pop and intricate storytelling. Her sophomore EP, COLLXTION II, is a testament to her artistic growth and experimentation. Released on October 4, 2019, the EP is a sonic exploration of themes such as love, identity, and mortality. In this blog post, we'll dive into the world of COLLXTION II, analyzing the EP's sound, lyrics, and the artistic vision behind it.
The Evolution of Allie X's Sound
Allie X's music has always been characterized by its dark, avant-garde aesthetic. Her debut EP, COLLXTION I, introduced listeners to her distinctive sound, which blended elements of pop, electronic, and industrial music. With COLLXTION II, Allie X pushes the boundaries of her sound even further, incorporating more experimental and atmospheric elements.
The EP's production is handled by a range of collaborators, including Pop Wrangler, BloodPop, and Justin Tranter, among others. The result is a cohesive, yet eclectic sound that showcases Allie X's versatility as a songwriter and performer. For example, in an interview with Billboard, Allie X explained that she aimed to create a more "cinematic" sound on COLLXTION II, drawing inspiration from films and television shows.
Lyrical Themes and Storytelling
COLLXTION II is an EP that defies easy interpretation. The lyrics are often abstract and open to multiple readings, inviting listeners to fill in the gaps with their own interpretations. Allie X's storytelling is both personal and universal, tackling themes such as love, relationships, and existential crises.
The EP's lead single, "Catch", is a prime example of Allie X's lyrical dexterity. The song's lyrics are a meditation on the fragility of relationships, with Allie X delivering lines like "Is this the real thing or just a fantasy?" and "I'm stuck in the haze, got my head in the shade". In a statement to MTV, Allie X explained that "Catch" was inspired by her own experiences with anxiety and uncertainty in relationships. Here’s a critical review of Allie X’s CollXtion
Track-by-Track Analysis
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"Alone": The EP's opening track sets the tone for the rest of the collection. "Alone" is a haunting, atmospheric song that showcases Allie X's vocal range and emotional delivery. According to Allie X, the song was written during a particularly difficult time in her life, when she was feeling isolated and disconnected from others.
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"Catch": As mentioned earlier, "Catch" is a standout single that showcases Allie X's lyrical skill and melodic sensibility. The song's dark, pulsing beat and eerie synths create a sense of tension that's both captivating and unsettling. Allie X has cited the song's inspiration as a conversation she had with a friend about the blurred lines between reality and fantasy.
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"Graveyard": "Graveyard" is a slow-burning, introspective track that explores themes of mortality and the afterlife. Allie X's vocal delivery is both subtle and powerful, conveying a sense of vulnerability and longing. In an interview with The Fader, Allie X explained that the song was inspired by her own fears of death and the unknown.
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"Devil": "Devil" is a more upbeat, synth-heavy track that showcases Allie X's ability to craft catchy, danceable pop songs. The lyrics are a tongue-in-cheek exploration of toxic relationships and the blurred lines between love and lust. According to Allie X, the song was written as a response to the societal pressure to conform to traditional relationship norms.
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"Apocalypse": The EP's closing track is a haunting, atmospheric song that explores themes of existential crisis and personal transformation. Allie X's vocal delivery is both emotive and restrained, creating a sense of intimacy and vulnerability. Allie X has stated that the song was inspired by her own experiences with anxiety and depression, and the need to find hope and resilience in the face of adversity.
The Artistic Vision Behind COLLXTION II
COLLXTION II is more than just an EP – it's a cohesive artistic statement that showcases Allie X's vision and creative sensibility. The EP's visuals and aesthetics are just as important as the music itself, with Allie X collaborating with a range of artists and designers to create a distinctive visual identity.
The EP's artwork, which features a haunting image of Allie X surrounded by flames and ash, sets the tone for the rest of the collection. The visuals for each track are equally striking, with Allie X experimenting with a range of styles and techniques to create a unique look and feel. According to Allie X, the EP's visuals were inspired by her own fascination with the intersection of technology and human emotion.
Conclusion
COLLXTION II is a bold, innovative EP that cements Allie X's status as one of the most exciting and experimental artists in pop music today. With its dark, moody soundscapes and introspective lyrics, the EP is a must-listen for fans of artists like Grimes, Tove Lo, and Charli XCX.
Allie X's artistic vision is both ambitious and uncompromising, and COLLXTION II is a testament to her creativity and perseverance. As she continues to push the boundaries of pop music and explore new sounds and themes, we can't help but be excited for what's next from this talented young artist.
In her own words, Allie X has stated that she aims to create music that is "honest, raw, and unapologetic". With COLLXTION II, she has succeeded in creating a work that is both a reflection of her own artistic vision and a challenge to the status quo of pop music.
Allie X’s CollXtion II is more than an album. It is a bold, high-concept masterpiece that defined the indie-pop landscape of the late 2010s. Following the enigmatic success of her debut EP, CollXtion I, this 2017 full-length release solidified Allie X as a visionary architect of "avant-garde pop." The Evolution of the X Persona
In the world of Allie X, the "X" represents the unknown variable. CollXtion II serves as a sonic journey through self-discovery and the fragmentation of identity. While her first EP was clinical and cold, this record feels intimate and vulnerable, peeling back the layers of her polished synth-pop exterior. Key Tracks and Sonic Themes
The album is a masterclass in blending catchy hooks with dark, introspective lyricism.
Paper Love: The breakout hit. It uses a whistling hook and a driving beat to describe an addictive, flimsy romance that’s bound to shred.
Casanova: A high-energy anthem about toxic attraction. It perfectly showcases Allie’s ability to turn self-destruction into a dance-floor filler.
Old Habits Die Hard: A shimmering, retro-inspired track that explores the difficulty of moving past one's darker impulses.
That’s So Us: A quirky, relatable love song for the "misfits," highlighting Allie's sharper, more playful songwriting style. Production and Aesthetic
CollXtion II thrived on its cohesive visual and auditory world. Allie X collaborated with top-tier producers like Billboard and Jordan Palmer to create a sound that felt both futuristic and nostalgic.
Analog Meets Digital: The record heavily features 80s-style synthesizers paired with crisp, modern percussion.
Visual Narrative: The album artwork and music videos leaned into a "suburban surrealist" aesthetic—think oversized glasses, stiff silhouettes, and a sense of structured chaos.
The Unsolved Project: The album was preceded by CollXtion II: Unsolved, a unique digital experiment where Allie shared demos and invited fans to vote on which songs should make the final cut. Why CollXtion II Still Matters
Years after its release, CollXtion II remains a blueprint for independent artists. It proved that you could make "weird" pop music that still felt accessible and polished. Allie X didn't just release a collection of songs; she built a cult-favorite universe that challenged the boundaries of what a pop star could be.
💡 Key Takeaway: CollXtion II is the definitive entry point for anyone looking to understand the intersection of experimental art and mainstream pop appeal.
If you’re working on a project about Allie X, I can help you: Analyze the lyrics of a specific track Compare this album to CollXtion I or Cape God Find interviews where she explains the "Unsolved" process
Released on June 9, 2017, CollXtion II serves as the debut full-length studio album by Canadian singer-songwriter Allie X
. Following the 2015 EP CollXtion I, this record marked a transition from experimental "indie-tronic" sounds toward a more refined, dark-pop aesthetic. Core Themes and Narrative
The album is defined by a "longing and being lost" theme, contrasting with the "addiction and self-destruction" focus of its predecessor. Allie X describes the project as an exploration of identity fragmentation and the psychological "shadow self".
Allie X - CollXtion II review by Silver_Castle - Album of The Year
The release of Allie X’s CollXtion II in 2017 marked a pivotal moment in the landscape of independent pop. While its predecessor, CollXtion I, introduced us to the enigmatic, avant-garde persona of Alexandra Hughes, CollXtion II was the project that solidified her status as a master of "concept pop"—a world where polished 80s-inspired synths meet a deeply introspective, often dark, narrative.
Here is a deep dive into the sonic world, themes, and lasting impact of CollXtion II. The Evolution of the Allie X Mythos
Before CollXtion II, Allie X was largely known for her mystery. She appeared in medical masks and oversized glasses, treating her music as an ongoing multimedia art project. If the first collection was about the "spinning" and the fractured self, CollXtion II was the "assembling."
After a period of trial and error (including the scrapped CollXtion II: Unsolved experiment where she invited fans to vote on demos), Allie X emerged with a cohesive, ten-track record that felt both mainstream-ready and fiercely idiosyncratic. A Masterclass in Dark-Pop Production
The production on CollXtion II is crisp, cinematic, and heavily indebted to the 1980s without feeling like a parody.
"Paper Love": Perhaps her most recognizable hit, the track uses a haunting "whistle" hook and a bouncy bassline to mask the pain of a toxic, fragile romance.
"Vintage": A nostalgic anthem that showcases Allie’s incredible vocal range. It captures the feeling of wanting to return to a simpler time, wrapped in a shimmering, synth-heavy production. Allie X – CollXtion II : Darker, Bolder,
"Casanova": A high-energy standout that highlights her ability to write massive pop choruses. The song explores the thrill and inevitable crash of falling for a classic player. Thematic Depth: Identity and Autonomy
Beyond the hooks, CollXtion II is a journey through the psyche. Allie X has often described her persona as an "empty vessel" being filled by her experiences, and this album explores that void.
Songs like "Old Habits Die Hard" and "That’s So Us" look at the messy, repetitive nature of human relationships. Meanwhile, "Need You" (featuring Valley Girl) and "Downtown" lean into the loneliness of the modern urban experience. The album doesn't shy away from the "X" in her name—representing the unknown or the variable—delving into the parts of herself that are still under construction. The Visual Identity
You cannot discuss CollXtion II without the visuals. Allie X collaborated with photographers and stylists to create a look that was "Harajuku meets Victorian mourning." The album art and accompanying music videos utilized a muted, almost clinical color palette that contrasted sharply with the vibrant, maximalist sound of the music. This juxtaposition created a "clinical pop" aesthetic that influenced a wave of indie-pop artists on Tumblr and social media. Why It Still Matters
CollXtion II remains a cult classic because it proved that pop music doesn't have to be shallow to be catchy. It provided a blueprint for artists like Charli XCX and Kim Petras, showing that you could maintain total creative control and a "weird" persona while delivering radio-quality hooks.
For fans, the album wasn't just a collection of songs; it was an invitation to join the "X" community—a space for the outsiders, the dreamers, and those who feel like they’re still trying to put the pieces of themselves together. AI responses may include mistakes. Learn more
Allie X’s CollXtion II (released June 9, 2017) is her definitive second collection of pop "perfXtion," evolving from the interactive COLLXTION II ɄNSOLVED project where fans helped shape the tracklist. Here are a few ways to post about this synth-pop milestone: For the "X" Stans (Stonewall Vibe)
Caption: Still not over the era that gave us "Paper Love" and "Casanova" 🍭 Allie X really solved the mystery with CollXtion II. Which track are you still streaming on loop?
Key Tracks: "Paper Love," "Vintage," "Old Habits Die Hard"Hashtags: #AllieX #CollXtionII #DarkPop #VinylCommunity The "Deep Cut" Appreciation
Caption: CollXtion II remains one of the most underrated pop blueprints. From the "ɄNSOLVED" demos to the haunting finale of "True Love Is Violent," Allie Hughes proved she’s a master of self-sabotage-turned-synth-perfection.
Did you know? Allie penned hits for Troye Sivan and Lea Michele while struggling to get this record off the ground.Hashtags: #AllieX #PopPerfXtion #SynthPop #CollXtionII The Aesthetic/Vinyl Showcase
Caption: Spinning that mint green vinyl today 🌿 CollXtion II is more than an album; it's a multimedia experience. That whistle in "Paper Love" still hits different.
Listen on: Spotify | Apple MusicHashtags: #AllieX #VinylCollector #CollXtionII #NowSpinning
Watch the haunting official visual for 'True Love Is Violent', the emotional closer of the collection: Allie X - True Love Is Violent Allie X - Topic YouTube• Oct 2, 2022
Allie X - CollXtion II review by Silver_Castle - Album of The Year
The Unsolved Solved: A Deep Dive into Allie X’s 'CollXtion II' Canadian synth-pop architect
(born Alexandra Hughes) solidified her place as pop’s most intriguing "unknown variable" with the release of her debut full-length album, CollXtion II, on June 9, 2017. Following the experimental "Unsolved" era—where she shared demos to let fans help shape the final tracklist—the album emerged as a polished, narrative-driven exploration of identity, pain, and the reclamation of self. Sound and Aesthetic: Dark-Pop Precision
The album is a masterclass in "dark-pop," blending shimmering 80s-inspired synths with a lurking, often unsettling lyrical depth. Critics have noted that while the production is "spotless" and "crisp," there is a persistent "creepiness" just beneath the surface of its melodic hooks.
Production Powerhouse: Hughes collaborated with heavy-hitters like Cirkut, Billboard, and Jordan Palmer to refine the record's sonic palette.
Vocal Versatility: Despite her classical training, Allie X intentionally uses a "less trained" sound on the record to fit the pop world, though her technical prowess occasionally "indudges" in moments like the bright, forward vibrato found in her work. Key Tracks and Themes
The 10-track collection navigates the dehumanizing nature of the entertainment industry and the search for authentic connection in a "soul-less city" like Los Angeles.
"Paper Love": A standout opener that begins with stacking synths reminiscent of a computer restarting, signaling the start of Allie’s self-exploration.
"Vintage": A bold track that samples the string line from Rick Astley’s "Never Gonna Give You Up," transforming a potentially "cringe-inducing" riff into a glamorous pop anthem.
"Casanova": A house-inspired dark-pop track that emerged as a fan favorite during the Unsolved process.
"True Love is Violent": A stripped-down, slower closing track that maintains the album's grand scale through careful arrangement.
Allie X provides a detailed 'XPLANATION' for the tracks on CollXtion II, diving into the personal experiences that inspired the music: COLLXTION II: XPLANATION YouTube• Jun 16, 2017 The World of X
CollXtion II is more than just an album; it’s a chapter in the ongoing "World of X." Hughes uses her music to search for her truth, treating the "X" in her name as an unknown variable she is constantly trying to solve. The project encourages fans to embrace their own "X-Static Process," channeling insecurities and self-destructive tendencies into art.
While Allie X has since evolved through subsequent eras like Super Sunset and Cape God, CollXtion II remains a definitive pillar of her discography—a record that proved pop music could be "well-crafted, amazing, and artful" all at once.
You can stream the full ten-track journey of CollXtion II here: CollXtion II - Out Now. YouTube• Jun 10, 2017 Allie X: Interview - STATIC – WNYU's Music Magazine
Allie X's "CollXtion II" is a captivating and eclectic collection of songs that showcases the artist's unique blend of dark pop, electronic, and experimental sounds. The album is a follow-up to her 2017 debut "CollXtion I" and features 10 tracks that are both visually and sonically stunning.
The album kicks off with "Prime", a haunting and atmospheric track that sets the tone for the rest of the record. Allie X's vocals are distinctive and emotive, conveying a sense of vulnerability and intensity.
One of the standout tracks is "Catch", a catchy and upbeat song with a memorable chorus and a dash of '80s-inspired synths. The song's music video, featuring Allie X as a futuristic pop star, is equally impressive.
Other highlights include "Sanctuary", a moody and introspective ballad that showcases Allie X's vocal range, and "Old Habits Die Hard", a dark and pulsing track with a driving beat.
Throughout the album, Allie X explores themes of technology, identity, and human connection, often with a sense of irony and wit. Her lyrics are clever and insightful, and her vocal delivery is always compelling.
Overall, "CollXtion II" is a fascinating and engaging album that showcases Allie X's innovative approach to pop music. If you're a fan of experimental pop, electronic music, or just great songwriting, this album is definitely worth checking out.
Some notable tracks from the album include:
- "Prime"
- "Catch"
- "Sanctuary"
- "Old Habits Die Hard"
- "Tear My Heart Out"
Rating: 4.5/5 stars
Recommendation: If you enjoy artists like Grimes, Tove Lo, or Charli XCX, you'll likely appreciate Allie X's unique sound and style. Give "CollXtion II" a listen and experience the captivating world of Allie X.
“All the Rage” – The Bitter Acceptance
The closer reframes the entire album as a survival manual. Over a driving, New Order-esque bassline, Allie X sings about learning to live with her own volatility: “I’m all the rage / But I’m not angry.” The phrase “all the rage” is a pun: both trendy and furious. The protagonist has integrated her shadow self. The final chorus adds a new harmony line—“I’m not sorry, I’m not sorry”—that repeats into the outro, fading rather than resolving. She has not healed; she has accepted. The final sound is a single synth note held until it distorts and cuts off—a power button pressed.
Standout Tracks
- Paper Love – The definitive Allie X song: frantic, romantic, and heartbreaking. The bridge (“I’m not a piece of paper”) is a moment of pure defiance.
- Vintage – A sly, seductive banger about being “out of time.” The pre-chorus is one of her best-written melodic sequences.
- Lifted – Dark, discordant, and hypnotic. An album highlight that feels like a panic attack turned into art.
- Old Habits Die Hard – Brutally honest and self-aware. “I’m a mess, but I’m a masterpiece” could be her mantra.
