Lambert’s debut single “After Dark,” released on October 22, 2024, is a moody, cinematic entry into the world of electro-pop. As the first taste of her upcoming EP, the song is a vivid blend of electro, synth, and dream pop, layered with a sense of nostalgia and introspection. If you’re into those atmospheric, late-night tracks that feel like the soundtrack to a slow, dreamlike drive, this one will hit the spot.
At its core, “After Dark” is about embracing solitude and the journey of finding your inner voice. Lambert’s lyrics capture a sense of isolation, but in a way that feels empowering rather than bleak. The opening lines have this spacious, almost ghostly vibe, and as the song builds, you can feel the push and pull between loneliness and self-discovery. The vocal layering works wonders here—her voice almost floats on top of the deep, dark synths that drive the song.
One of the standout moments happens around the 1:11 mark (Lambert’s recommended listening point), where the track blossoms into something more expansive. The retro drums kick in, adding a nostalgic groove that contrasts beautifully with the modern synths, creating this perfect fusion of old-school and futuristic sounds. It’s like a nod to 80s synthpop while still feeling fresh and cinematic. There’s also something dreamlike in how the song evolves structurally—there’s no traditional verse-chorus formula. Instead, it feels like it ebbs and flows, which makes each moment feel like a new discovery.
Lambert’s background as a music video director also plays into the song’s vibe. The surreal music video she’s directed, set inside a fishbowl-like bedroom, adds this extra layer of meaning. It visually echoes the feeling of being both isolated and observed, a theme that pairs perfectly with the song’s lyrical and sonic mood. It’s a brilliant touch and shows how Lambert is not only crafting songs but creating entire worlds around her music.
“After Dark” has a cinematic quality that immediately pulls you in. The combination of haunting vocal effects, dark synths, and retro rhythms feels like it’s designed for late-night listening sessions. Fans of Allie X, Goldfrapp, and Shura will feel right at home here, but there’s also a broader appeal for anyone who loves music that sits at the intersection of dreamy and melancholic.
Lambert’s debut single shows immense promise, both musically and visually. With “After Dark,” she’s stepping into the spotlight, not just as a songwriter and producer, but as a director and visual storyteller. I’m excited to see how her unique vision will shape her debut EP—and if this single is anything to go by, we’re in for something special.
