What makes Truth Serum by Tove Lo notable?

Truth Serum not only showcased Tove Lo's unique songwriting style but also propelled her to mainstream success, especially with 'Habits (Stay High)' reaching the top ten in multiple countries. The EP's critical reception was positive, garnering acclaim for its honest exploration of personal themes and setting the stage for her subsequent albums. Released in early 2014, Truth Serum marked Tove Lo's debut EP following her breakout single 'Habits (Stay High)', which had already gained international attention. This release helped solidify her presence in the pop music scene as a distinctive voice with candid lyrics and an edgy sound.

How many songs are on Truth Serum?

Truth Serum has 4 tracks, running approximately 14 minutes.

Truth Serum

Tove Lo · 2014

14 min · 4 tracks · indie pop

A raw and captivating blend of synth-pop and electropop, revealing confessions of love and heartbreak with pulsating energy.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Paradise — This opening track introduces listeners to Tove Lo’s signature sound, blending euphoric melodies with lyrics that juxtapose joy and heartache.
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Over — With its infectious chorus and driving beat, this track captures the feeling of reckless abandon that permeates the EP, making it a standout moment.
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Habits (Stay High) — The Oliver Nelson remix elevates this breakout hit, showcasing Tove Lo's knack for creating relatable anthems about coping with heartbreak through danceable pop.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

51 /100

Foothills

Higher than 34% of albums we've rated

The EP combines catchy hooks with emotional depth, establishing Tove Lo's distinct sound within indie pop.

What we noticed

The first track, 'Paradise', opens with a pulsing synth line that sets a consistent electronic backdrop for the EP.
Each song features a strong hook, often repeating key phrases to emphasize emotional themes of love and heartbreak.
The production employs layered vocals and dynamic shifts, particularly in 'Over' where the intensity builds before dropping to a quieter bridge.

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

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.

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — This EP solidified Tove Lo's mainstream success after 'Habits (Stay High)'.
Career context: Released in early 2014, Truth Serum marked Tove Lo's debut EP following her breakout single 'Habits (Stay High)', which had already gained international attention. This release helped solidify her presence in the pop music scene as a distinctive voice with candid lyrics and an edgy sound.
Stylistic neighbors: Lorde· Alessia Cara· Charli XCX