The EP opens with "Suburbia," and my first reaction was a hesitant “ugh, pop.” Not because pop itself is inherently bad, but because so much of what filters through the radio often feels overly derivative. Yet, after the first few seconds, the track began to settle into its own identity, a slow-burn introduction that gently eases the listener into Emily’s music and her voice, which has a rich distinctive tone.

"Under the Influence" leans firmly into pop, but it does so with a slower, more reflective mood rather than aiming to be an in-your-face banger. It carries a contemplative quality, with space that lets the song breathe. There are undeniable Taylor Swift undertones, more in the melodic choices and instrumental layering than in the vocals themselves, suggesting a stylistic influence without feeling derivative.

From the moment "Underdog" begins, the stronger pop sensibilities are immediately clear. The track eases in with a slow introduction, gradually building momentum before lifting into a chorus that fully delivers on its promise. It’s polished, uplifting, and exactly the kind of payoff you hope for in a pop anthem. Midway through, there’s a break that shifts the energy, carrying a flair reminiscent of Avril Lavigne, adding a touch of nostalgic pop-rock edge without breaking the overall flow.

"Blueprint" quickens the pace, carrying a sense of urgency that sets it apart from the other tracks. There’s an unmistakably personal edge here, with flashes of anger and regret woven into both the subject matter and the sharper, spicier language. That raw emotion makes it hit harder, and for me, it stands out as the strongest track on the EP, memorable not just for its energy, but for the honesty it brings to the collection.

The reminiscing carries on with "Picture It," an uptempo track driven by rapid-fire lyrics that look back on days gone by while hinting at the possible re-ignition of a lost romance. The song shines in its clever wordplay, weaving a story that feels both playful and heartfelt. By the time it wraps, you can’t help but be left with the lingering question: “does he feel the same?”

The EP closes with "Sunburn," a strong choice for the finale, though I couldn’t help but feel it might have been even more poignant had it been stripped back. The vocal performance carries real emotion and vulnerability, but the synth underpinning at times feels a little heavy-handed, pulling focus away from the heart of the track. It’s still a compelling closer, but one that hints at how powerful it could have been with a more understated arrangement.

Overall, this EP serves as a strong introduction to Emily’s music. The lyrical craft and playful wordplay stand out as real highlights, consistently drawing the listener in. I’m especially eager to hear where she goes next, particularly with material that allows her vocals to take center stage and shine even brighter.