What makes After School EP by Melanie Martinez notable?

After School EP was well-received, debuting at number 8 on the Billboard 200 chart, marking Martinez’s second consecutive top ten entry. The EP's exploration of mental health issues resonated with listeners and solidified her place within the alternative pop landscape, influencing discussions around emotional well-being in youth culture. Released on September 25, 2020, After School EP marks Melanie Martinez's first project following her debut studio album, Cry Baby (2015). At this point in her career, she had already established a distinct aesthetic and sound, which she further explores in this collection of tracks. The EP showcases her growth as an artist, blending childhood themes with mature reflections.

Who is After School EP for?

After School EP works well if you're into playful exploration of self-identity, short bursts of energetic fun and introspective themes in catchy form.

How many songs are on After School EP?

After School EP has 7 tracks, running approximately 22 minutes.

After School EP

Melanie Martinez · 2020

22 min · 7 tracks · indie pop

A vivid blend of playful melodies and introspective lyrics, woven through electronic beats and emotional delivery.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Brain & Heart — This track encapsulates the internal struggle between emotions and logic, featuring an infectious chorus that highlights Martinez's unique songwriting style.
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Numbers — With its catchy hooks and relatable themes about self-worth measured by societal standards, this track exemplifies the EP's blend of vulnerability and empowerment.
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The Bakery — This song stands out for its whimsical imagery and metaphorical depth, representing the process of creating one's identity amidst external pressures.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

50 /100

Foothills

Higher than 23% of albums we've rated

The EP blends introspective lyrics with electronic pop elements, creating a distinct yet familiar sound.

What we noticed

The first three tracks feature a consistent mid-tempo pace, while the last four shift to more varied tempos and styles.
The EP closes with 'The Bakery,' which contrasts the earlier tracks by incorporating a more upbeat tempo and playful instrumentation.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

playful exploration of self-identity
short bursts of energetic fun
introspective themes in catchy form
ideal for youthful daydreaming

Maybe skip if you

prefer lengthy, complex compositions
seek serious, heavy emotional depth

Where this album fits

Career context: Released on September 25, 2020, After School EP marks Melanie Martinez's first project following her debut studio album, Cry Baby (2015). At this point in her career, she had already established a distinct aesthetic and sound, which she further explores in this collection of tracks. The EP showcases her growth as an artist, blending childhood themes with mature reflections.
Stylistic neighbors: Grimes· Lana Del Rey· Billie Eilish