Not That Girl is the captivating new album from Filipino singer/songwriter Barbie Almalbis, who wrote the release during one of the most difficult times in her life. Resulting themes capture “holding on to faith through struggles, finding hope through surrender, and celebrating the joy that comes from love and friendship,” per Almalbis. A mature poise is evident in this pursuit, capturing personal growth and healing relative to past releases, which more often drew upon experiences such as heartbreak. This artistic direction culminates in Almalbis’ most introspective sound yet, all while retaining her knack for melodically immersive approachability.
Alongside producer Nick Lazaro, Almalbis crafts an album that tactfully balances intimate emotiveness and hooky charisma. “Desperate Hours” opens the release with an invigorating rock pulse. Fragmented guitar twangs meld with layered vocal backings, moving into a fervent lead that contemplates “am I the adversary?” with compelling intrigue. “Happy Sad” continues the soul-searching engrossment, admitting “I don’t know what’s happening to me,” amidst acoustic guitar strums. The pit-pattering percussion and rising vocal melodics prove extremely memorable, aesthetically reminiscent of Japanese Breakfast. Not That Girl wastes no time in showcasing its harmonious, artful appeal.
Another highlight comes via the album’s title track, a stirring success with impassioned piano trickling and momentum-filled vocal sincerity. “I’m not that girl anymore,” Almalbis sings into an impactful sequence as the “like a hurricane,” line hits. The smatterings of guitar align enjoyably with the constant piano-laden illumination and fierce vocal drive, conveying aforementioned personal growth with strong thematic prowess. The subsequent “How To Weep” showcases Almalbis’ lusher tonal reaches. “I wish there was some way you didn’t have to let go,” she laments within a textured swirl of tender acoustics and glimmering keys; the dreamy folk production is thoroughly enchanting within stated desires to move on.
Album finale “Needy” grooves enjoyably on understated guitars and slight organs, set alongside moving lyrical depictions of coming to terms with new emotions. “I can live my life without you,” the serenely gripping hook exudes, capping off the release with a coming-to-terms realization and invitingly laid-back sound. Not That Girl is a thoroughly captivating success from Barbie Almalbis.
Almalbis is also hosting an album launch event at Sari-Sari Cocktails in Makati City, later today (1/10), with an extended live set — and also featuring acts like Kai del Rio, .bird, Twin Lobster, and Johnoy Danao.
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