Lykke Li Creates a Revenge-Pop Opus With ‘The Afterparty’: Album Review

Swedish singer Lykke Li, who first captured attention in the late 2000s, has likely grown weary of constant comparisons to fellow pop artist Robyn. However, the most relevant observation is that Li’s body of work has been significantly undervalued in contrast. She explored similar musical territory around the same era—her debut album, "Youth Novels," arrived in 2008—and revisiting her earlier catalog reveals a subtle but substantial influence on the genre. Derek Davies, cofounder of her new label Neon Gold, has stated that Li’s music directly inspired him to launch the record company. After a four-year hiatus since her last release, Li is reportedly positioning "The Afterparty" as her final album. If so, it serves as a precise and formidable swan song, clocking in at just under 25 minutes across nine tracks.

The lyrical themes are immediately apparent from song titles like "Not Gon’ Cry," "Famous Last Words," "So Happy I Could Die," "Sick of Love," and "Knife in the Heart." The album cover, featuring Li with a stocking pulled over her head reminiscent of a 1970s bank robber, initially suggests a purely angry tone. Yet, this imagery is somewhat deceptive for a work that is remarkably complex and layered, though its brevity can cause listeners to overlook subtle nuances. "The Afterparty" continues Li’s signature blend of ambitious, electronic-driven alternative pop, but this time strings play a role almost as prominent as synthesizers. This orchestral element introduces an organic richness that contrasts sharply with the biting lyrics—strings effectively become the lead instrument on several tracks, including a sample from Max Richter on "Lucky Again." Neon Gold, founded in 2008 by Davies and Lizzy Plapinger, has been known for championing emerging artists and releasing early works by acts like Passion Pit and Marina and the Diamonds, making it a fitting home for Li’s final statement.

The juxtaposition between sweet melodies and sour emotions has always been a hallmark of Li’s vocal style, and on this album, it takes on a sharper edge. Vengeful lyrics are balanced by bittersweet melodies, soaring choruses, and orchestral flourishes, with stacked harmonies creating a beautiful yet angry chorus of Lykkes. While the album maintains high quality throughout, "Are You Happy Now" stands out as the highlight. It begins gently, with strings supporting a percolating rhythm track and siren-like synth, before exploding into a chorus where the beat intensifies and strings transform into triumphant flourishes reminiscent of "I Will Survive." This resilience carries through to the album’s closer, the ironically titled "Euphoria." Music critic Emma Johnson of Pitchfork noted that "Li’s ability to weave vulnerability with defiance makes this album a masterclass in emotional complexity." If this truly marks Li’s final album—and fans hope it is not—she is undoubtedly concluding her career on a powerful, memorable note.