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Photo: Samantha Levi

SkyDxddy's debut album, TRAUMACORE: RAW AND UNCUT, is a beacon of empowerment for survivors of abuse and mental health issues. The thirteen-track body of work is a profoundly personal, unapologetic exploration of trauma, healing, and self-empowerment. Inspired by her journey of overcoming her own trauma, SkyDxddy's fearless voice in alternative music not only inspires but reinforces her place as a force to be reckoned with.

The album's opener, "Choker," is a poignant reflection of the inner turmoil that many people face while maintaining a facade of normalcy. SkyDxddy's choice of lyrics, coupled with emotive guitar riffs and drum tracks, not only strikes a chord with our angsty teenage selves and our adult minds but also evokes a deep sense of empathy and engagement. The chorus, with lines like, "But I feel it tightening, baby I wear it like a choker," uses the symbol of the choker to vividly express the suffocating nature of life's challenges, fostering a sense of connection and understanding.

In the opening moments of "Mortal Kombat," the song bursts with intense energy, reflecting the determined spirit of its namesake video game. The track's central themes of overcoming obstacles and coming back stronger are embodied in lines like "Try to walk all over me, then watch me as I bounce back," further reinforced with driving beats and assertive melodies that amplify the track's rebellious tone. Her emotive and commanding vocals are intoxicating and embody the fight to stand one's ground, especially on the catchy yet powerful chorus, making it more than just music, but a battle cry, fueled by the primal instinct to defend oneself against physical or psychological adversity.

Other standout tracks include the empowering and brave "Medusa," the fierce "Not Guilty," a powerful PSA about domestic violence, and the incredibly moving "HER." The latter of the two tells a story that is unfortunately all too familiar for many, as it deals with the struggles of living with body dysmorphia and wrestling with eating disorders. She confronts the lingering impact of childhood negativity on adult self-perception. She poignantly addresses how bullying, hurtful comments, and emotional abuse can manifest as deep-rooted insecurities. The song acts as a message of self-acceptance, reminding listeners that they are perfect as they are and don't need to conform to unrealistic beauty standards.

"Best Part Of The Story" is a very healing and anthemic ending to the journey the album takes listeners on. SkyDxddy finally realizes after years of struggling with her dark side that she is her own hero, and she makes an oath to be her own champion and friend, belting, "My darkside, she strikes again / She always comes to my defense / So I don't ever have to worry / It's the best part of the story." The intense instrumentation fueled driving percussion, raging guitars, and deep, rich bass lines relax briefly in the bridge, allowing Sky's delicate, breathy vocals to serenade, "Can we get to the good part? / Life should never feel so hard / Let's just get to the good part / Life should never feel so, feel so."

Listen to TRAUMACORE: RAW AND UNCUT below: