In the modern world, the personality type that dominates the spectrum most is the narcissist. Sad but true, in a time of social media, a place flooded with those who are self-important and self-centered can be exhausting, making a more sensitive, thoughtful individual feel alone. However, this does not mean there is no space for the old soul, and Singer-Songwriter Mollie Elizabeth is a shining example of that.
Growing up in Washington state, surrounded by nature, Mollie Elizabeth found comfort in the birds and trees throughout her childhood. Something that some parents might find concerning, as all want their children to make friends, in the case of Elizabeth, this life path fits her well. Match this with the introduction of Traditional Pop by Frank Sinatra, Doris Day, and Rosemary Clooney, and a seed had been planted for a very distinct individual. Letting the sapling grow, Elizabeth became enamored with the smooth, beautiful tones of such music, again tethering itself to her old soul, much like the forest surrounding.
Naturally nurturing her creativity, Elizabeth began singing as a child, and over time, she developed her voice and songwriting skills. Then, when the world shut down due to a pandemic in 2020, Elizabeth felt more isolated than ever before. At the peak of her teenage years, she opted to turn this experience into music. Then, piquing curiosity, she bravely posted an original song called “Vegas Venetian” online, only to receive massive attention overnight.
An unexpected turn of events, it seems the universe was looking out for Elizabeth, because this event led to a record deal with Neon Gold and Virgin Music, paving the way for the debut EP Dirty Blonde. Released on June 27, 2025, Elizabeth’s broader introduction finds the now twenty-one-year-old artist fulfilling visions she only imagined in dreams or singing out loud alone in her bedroom. Truly magical, with Dirty Blonde she assembles six original songs that capture a Traditional Pop vibe with full-bodied production (at the hands of Dean Reid who has worked with Lana Del Rey and Marina), delicate instrumentation (including some lovely string sections), vocals that are silky smooth, matched with stories of love and heartbreak.
Perhaps something that would not fit in on the modern scene, that is the further attraction to Mollie Elizabeth’s approach, which is colorful, inviting, and undoubtedly sincere. Being true to who she is, the songs of Dirty Blonde tell the tales of navigating through love, the hurt you feel in the process, and yearning for something real.
Embracing these sobering moments, singles like “Dinner For One” paint vivid pictures of being alone, while “Riptide Roller” really gets to the heart of being burned too many times and the fear of being cast aside yet again. This is while “Doe Eyes” has a more modern vibe, but in the most elegant fashion, as Elizabeth presents an almost danceable vocal melody. All quite interesting, of course, there is also the lovely textures of “Vegas Venetian.” Still, perhaps the most stunning and emotional track in the entire collection is “Until We Meet Again,” which conveys universal messages about coping with loss.
Overall, Mollie Elizabeth has something very unique going on. She embraces who she is and does not try to fit in with the plastic world we are living in today. With this, she has successfully made a bold first impression, which hopefully will blossom into more. That is why Cryptic Rock gives Dirty Blonde 4.5 out of 5 stars.
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