An active member of the Melbourne indie scene before going solo, singer/songwriter/producer
Martha Brown debuted her introspective, stylized dance-pop on a self-titled
Banoffee EP in 2014. However, it wasn't until after relocating to Los Angeles for a fresh start following what she has described as a mental breakdown that she began writing her full-length debut. In the meantime, she toured both solo and as a member of
Charli XCX's band. With lyrics that work through past abuse and other personal ordeals, and with
Charli XCX's vibrant, off-kilter pop as a stylistic reference point,
Look at Us Now Dad embraces
Banoffee's newfound survivor status with a perhaps unexpectedly uplifting electro-pop. The warped and catchy opening track, "Tennis Fan," offers timbres including thumping beats, vocal harmonizer, and pitch-bending synths as well as vocals from featured guest
Empress Of. Later, a more striking guest spot is provided by rapper
CupcakKe on "Ripe," an ambitious effort that, along with a trio of interludes, transcends the shimmering club pop of the bulk of the set. The track was co-produced by
SOPHIE. Arguably the most compelling song, though, is closer "Look at Us Now Dad," a more restrained entry that embraces both sentimentality and hope for the future with one of the record's most hummable melodic phrases. It's a promising debut that should appeal particularly to fans of its electro-pop-minded contributors.