Live Review: LIZ is back with a double release that'll empower you and get you in your feelings

LIZ is one of pop's best kept secrets. She's a killer vocalist with a strong aesthetic eye and tracks that pull inspiration from everything like 90's RnB to modern kpop. She's worked with big names like ZEDD, LIDO, SOPHIE and DIPLO while still keeping her ear to the ground for hot new Soundcloud producers with a unique approach to left of centre pop to collab with. After a split from label Mad Decent, she's now newly independent, and back to what she does best. LIZ's newest double release 'Queen of Me / Could U Love Me' is a brilliant return to form showcasing both her independence and vulnerability across the tracks.

Working with producers WAVE RACER, HOODBOI and ARNOLD, she's carved out two completely different tracks both with catchy hooks and effortless delivery. Of the double release, she's said, "I wanted to pair these songs together because they express different sides and colours of who I am as a person and as an artist. You can be sexy and fierce, while also being vulnerable and honest."

'Queen of Me', featuring sparkling production from Melbourne's own Wave Racer, is a self empowerment seminar in a little over 3 minutes. This track is the perfect soundtrack for properly getting over a past boo (or perhaps label???) that's taken you for granted and realising it's time to value your worth. LIZ soars in the choruses and her bitey half-rap delivery in the verses is definitely a highlight. Also it's just so nice to hear those familiar tones of Wavey again, hopefully this is a taste of more from him this year.

On the other side of the coin is 'Could U Love Me', where LIZ looks inward and addresses her own shortcomings. Backed with the emotive production from Hoodboi and Arnold, the song feels like an introspective re-imagining of Ghost Town DJ's 'My Boo'. Her delivery is vulnerable and earnest, effortlessly pulling off a boppy pop performance while still tugging at the heartstrings.

LIZ's versatility is the true star of this release, with 'Queen of Me / Could U Love Me' kicking off what is set to be her year now she's an independent talent. You can give the tracks a listen via the streaming service of your choice here.

PHOTO BY NIKKO LAMERE

WORDS BY HOLLY O’NEILL

LISTEN TO MORE NEW MUSIC HERE

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