Poppy’s 'Dying To Forget': A Visual and Sonic Rebellion Against the Ordinary
There’s something about Poppy that defies easy categorization, and her latest music video for Dying To Forget is a perfect example of why. Personally, I think what makes this particularly fascinating is how she blends the industrial, the surreal, and the downright chaotic into something that feels both alien and intimately human. It’s not just a music video—it’s a statement, a rebellion against the predictable in an era where predictability often reigns supreme.
The Industrial Theater of 'Dying To Forget'
One thing that immediately stands out is the video’s setting: a dark, narrow corridor filled with thrashing spectators. It’s like a modern-day colosseum, but instead of gladiators, we have Poppy and her band delivering raw, unfiltered energy. What many people don’t realize is that the crowd isn’t just a backdrop—they’re real fans, and their enthusiasm is infectious. This isn’t just a performance; it’s a communal experience, a reminder that music is as much about the audience as it is about the artist.
From my perspective, the inclusion of Isaac Hale and Stephen Harrison in the video adds another layer of depth. Their presence isn’t just a cameo—it’s a nod to the collaborative spirit of her latest album, Empty Hands. If you take a step back and think about it, this video is a microcosm of Poppy’s career: eclectic, boundary-pushing, and unapologetically bold.
'Empty Hands': A Sonic Odyssey
What this album really suggests is that Poppy isn’t content to stay in one lane. Industrial elements? Check. Pop sensibilities? Check. Surrealist undertones? Absolutely. Pitchfork called it “heavier, savvier, and quirkier than ever,” and I couldn’t agree more. But what’s truly remarkable is how she manages to weave these disparate influences into a cohesive whole. It’s like she’s taken the best parts of her past work and distilled them into something entirely new.
A detail that I find especially interesting is how Empty Hands feels like a culmination of her journey so far. From her early surrealist roots to her Grammy-nominated metalcore collaborations, this album is a testament to her versatility. And yet, it’s also deeply personal. The title itself—Empty Hands—raises a deeper question: What does it mean to create when you feel like you have nothing left to give?
The 'Constantly Nowhere' Tour: A Global Phenomenon
Poppy’s decision to take Empty Hands on the road is more than just a promotional move—it’s a declaration of her commitment to her craft. The “Constantly Nowhere” tour isn’t just a series of concerts; it’s a movement. Fans in Australia, Europe, and soon North America are getting a front-row seat to her evolution as an artist.
What makes this particularly fascinating is the lineup she’s chosen for the North American leg. LANDMVRKS and THOUSAND BELOW aren’t just supporting acts—they’re kindred spirits, artists who share her passion for pushing boundaries. This tour isn’t just about music; it’s about community, about bringing together people who refuse to be boxed in.
Poppy’s Grammy Legacy: Breaking Barriers
Poppy’s Grammy nominations are more than just accolades—they’re milestones. Her 2021 nomination for “Bloodmoney” made history, marking the first time a female solo artist was recognized in the Best Metal Performance category. And her collaboration with KNOCKED LOOSE on “Suffocate”? It’s a testament to her ability to transcend genres.
In my opinion, what’s most impressive about Poppy’s Grammy journey is how she’s managed to stay true to herself while breaking new ground. She’s not just a singer or a songwriter—she’s a cultural force, challenging norms and redefining what it means to be an artist in the 21st century.
The Broader Implications: Poppy as a Cultural Catalyst
If you take a step back and think about it, Poppy’s work isn’t just about music—it’s about resistance. Resistance to conformity, to expectations, to the idea that artists must fit into neat categories. Her ability to blend genres, challenge conventions, and connect with her audience on a visceral level is what makes her so compelling.
What this really suggests is that Poppy isn’t just an artist—she’s a mirror, reflecting the complexities and contradictions of our time. Her music and visuals are a call to embrace the chaos, to find beauty in the discord, and to never stop questioning the status quo.
Final Thoughts: Why Poppy Matters
Personally, I think Poppy’s impact extends far beyond her music. She’s a reminder that art, at its best, is a form of rebellion. In a world that often feels homogenized, she’s a beacon of originality, a testament to the power of creativity to challenge, inspire, and transform.
As I reflect on Dying To Forget and Empty Hands, I’m struck by how much Poppy has to say—and how much we still have to learn from her. Her journey is far from over, and I, for one, can’t wait to see where she goes next. Because if there’s one thing Poppy has taught us, it’s that the most exciting moments are the ones that defy expectation.
