Review: "Mannequin" - Paris WYA
- Azalea Withrow
- 2 hours ago
- 2 min read
A beautiful ballad reflecting the standard of perfection set before her by both societal and personal pressures, "Mannequin" is the title song on the eight-track EP that explores the trilingual artist’s diverse background and its impact on her identity. Although she grew up between countries, Paris spent the bulk of her childhood in Asia. She explains through this track the burdensome expectations that shaped her life thus far. The song chronicles the musician's first strenuous reflections about being sculpted into a million things all apart from herself. In her own words, "'It represents being on display, being polished into something 'perfect' but ultimately lifeless.'" This EP marks a specific milestone for Paris WYA, who will continue to pursue music full-time after graduating from Cornell University this month.
Juxtaposing Paris' earlier musical releases, "Mannequin" substitutes her digital pop projects for grounding acoustic arrangements and softer sonic textures. Earnest lyricism comes clearly to the surface in the diaristic single that begins with gentle acoustic guitar instrumentals and gracious vocalizations. Soft delivery by her velvety voice epitomizes the crafted "perfect version of herself." Paris' voice builds with intensity in sound and emotion as she reveals the disconnect between these two versions of herself. The verses continue integrating sparse piano and then slowed percussion that gains with the rising and falling of Paris' vocals.
Graduating from Cornell University this month, Paris WYA is a dedicated pop artist whose music reflects an authentic vulnerability, particularly in her new EP, MANNEQUIN. Raised across Asia, Europe, and the United States, the artist's unique perspective lends itself to garnering a resonance across a widely diverse audience. A multidimensional artist, Paris has a background that spans across the arts, including experience in ballet, jazz, and hip-hop dance. Taking the important leap to pursue music full-time upon graduation, Paris WYA's career promises to be one to watch as she expands her independent presence for both herself and global audiences.
Written By Azalea Withrow
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