While Mitski's breakthrough album, Bury Me At Makeout Point, was a loud and proud affair, the follow-up provides a more gentle narration of the turbulence of coming of age.
In 'Your Best American Girl', the Japan born New Yorker describes her struggles of identity and trying to fit in. “You’re an all American boy, I guess I couldn’t help trying to be your best American girl.”
Mitski moves fluidly from delicate to gritty both in her voice and themes, showing she's not afraid to experiment. Dark synth creeps up behind sweet and soothing vocals in 'I Bet on Losing Dogs' creating the uneasy atmosphere of a twisted lullaby. Opening track, 'Happy' is full of sax and a catchy, upbeat melody which clashes wonderfully with the lyrical content.
Puberty 2 is an intensely personal offering from an artist yet to reach her potential, well worth a listen.
Rating: 7.5/10