As If! cover

As If!

Sky Ferreira · 2011

16 min · 5 tracks · indie pop

Dreamy synths and confessional lyrics intertwine, creating an atmospheric exploration of youth and self-identity.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Sex Rules — This track stands out with its bold commentary on sexuality and empowerment, encapsulating the EP's themes of youthful rebellion and self-discovery.
  • →
    Haters Anonymous — With its catchy chorus and candid lyrics about dealing with criticism, this song captures Ferreira's defiance and sets a tone of resilience throughout the EP.
  • →
    99 Tears — This track showcases Ferreira's vulnerability through its emotional depth, contrasting with the upbeat production to highlight the complexities of young love.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

54 /100
Foothills
Higher than 43% of albums we've rated

The EP blends dreamy synths with confessional lyrics, showcasing Ferreira's unique voice and solidifying her artistic identity.

What we noticed

  • The first track opens with a pulsing synth line that sets a dreamy atmosphere, which is maintained throughout the EP.
  • Each song features layered vocals that often harmonize, creating a lush soundscape that complements the introspective lyrics.
  • The EP concludes with an instrumental track that shifts the mood to a more reflective tone, contrasting with the earlier songs.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
6/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
5/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
7/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
8/10

running order, pacing, length

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

  • concise energetic flow
  • front-loaded track engagement
  • ethereal melodies for reflection
  • candid lyrics with attitude

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer lengthy immersive albums
  • seek slow, drawn-out pacing

Where this album fits

Career context
As If! marks Sky Ferreira's debut EP, released when she was just 18 years old. This project followed her earlier singles and set the stage for her evolving sound, blending indie pop and rock elements while establishing her as a unique voice in the music scene.
Stylistic neighbors
Grimes· Lana Del Rey· Bat for Lashes

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • Haters Anonymous

    The bridge switches from a defiant tone to a more reflective one, admitting vulnerability amidst external judgment.

    This shift provides a rare glimpse into Ferreira's inner struggles, balancing bravado with sincerity in a way that deepens the song's impact.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Sex Rules 2:44
  • 2 Traces 3:33
  • 3 Haters Anonymous 3:48
  • 4 99 Tears 3:27
  • 5 108 3:17

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata