FKA Twigs has officially released her highly anticipated follow-up album, Afterglow, on November 14, 2025. This new project comes after the success of her previous album, Eusexua, which was both a critical and commercial hit, earning a nomination for the prestigious Mercury Prize and her first-ever Grammy nomination. With Afterglow, Twigs continues to explore the realms of experimental pop, now focusing on the exhilarating moments that extend beyond the club scene.
The album is described as a sonic journey through the hours following a night out, capturing the essence of euphoria and escapism. Twigs’ signature sound is evident throughout the album, which features more intense beats and a raw energy that elevates the listening experience. Tracks like Love Crimes and Hard showcase a more primal side of her artistry, with strong drum patterns complementing her ethereal vocals. The playful lyrics in Hard, where she asks, “So tell me would you do it hard?”, highlight a flirtatious edge that resonates within the vibrant soundscape.
Exploring New Dimensions in Sound
In Afterglow, Twigs ventures into new territory, infusing her music with an alien quality that transforms familiar dance rhythms into surreal and captivating experiences. The track Sushi draws listeners into a lively NYC ballroom, while Slushy features atmospheric breaks that twist and distort the sound in unexpected ways. Cheap Hotel takes a typical garage beat and crafts it into a psychedelic narrative, reflecting the feeling of stumbling home from a night out with a sense of lightheartedness.
Despite its ambitious approach, Afterglow faces the challenge of following a monumental predecessor. While Eusexua balanced delicate highs with darker undertones, providing a depth that resonated with listeners, Afterglow lacks some of that nuance. The emotional complexity found in tracks like 24hr Dog and Sticky is less pronounced in this latest offering. Although the album extends the sonic universe established in Eusexua, it does not quite match the profound storytelling that characterized its predecessor.
FKA Twigs: A Prolific Voice in Alt-Pop
Even as a collection of what might be considered B-sides, Afterglow proves that Twigs remains one of the most innovative and prolific voices in alternative pop today. While it may not entirely live up to the high expectations set by Eusexua, the album is a testament to Twigs’ ability to continually evolve her sound and push boundaries within the genre.
As the music landscape continues to shift, FKA Twigs’ Afterglow stands as a bold statement of her artistry, inviting listeners to engage with her vibrant exploration of joy and escapism in the aftermath of nightlife.
