I love NPR Tiny Desk Concerts. In my opinion, stripped-down performances in intimate spaces are truly unparalleled. From Anderson .Paak & The Free Nationals to boygenius, an immense variety of musicians have appeared on the viral YouTube series. This week, I fell down the YouTube rabbit hole (again) and stumbled across my all-time favorite NPR Tiny Desk Concert: FKA twigs’ 2022 video.

In the video, acclaimed singer, songwriter, and dancer FKA twigs sings three songs—two of which are from her 2019 album MAGDALENE. The musician’s heavenly, soprano voice is accompanied by a piano, double bass, violin, and cello. Not only do her vocals and lyrics evoke spirituality, but the performance actually takes place in St. Matthias Church in London. Dressed in renaissance-esque attire, FKA twigs is surrounded by an array of melting candles as she concludes the video with the fan-favorite song “Cellophane.” If you are unfamiliar with FKA twigs, I urge you to watch her NPR Tiny Desk Concert video… I promise you, it will change your life. 

Inspired by this video, I want to discuss MAGDALENE, FKA twigs’ second album, in this week’s blog post. First, I want to acknowledge the fact that the musician wrote and co-produced the album. As far as versatile musicians go, FKA twigs is one of the most notable. Before making music, she was a professional dancer who worked with artists like Jessie J (she even starred in the “Price Tag” music video). Ultimately, MAGDALENE is an attestation to the out-of-this-world genius of FKA twigs. 

Listening to MAGDALENE is, in essence, a religious experience. Its lyrics are an extended allusion to the figure of Mary Magdalene, which resides at the story’s center. Throughout the second track “home with you,” FKA twigs introduces some of the album’s overarching thematic questions: “How have women been portrayed in religious texts, literature, and the media throughout history?” and, “How do relationships pollute our understanding of self-worth?” MAGDALENE redefines the idea of what an album can be. Spoken words, classical vocals, and intentional pauses all work together to elevate this album to an operatic composition. 

The release is heightened further by its visual imagery. According to Surface Magazine, the album cover was crafted by artist Matthew Stone, who combines fine art and digital design. In the image, FKA twigs is shown as a cracked figure. The brush strokes on her face are intentionally haphazard. Splotches of color seep through these “cracks,” the musician’s eyes, and the edges of the album cover. It's a nuanced blend of iconography and modern graphic design that speaks to the album’s themes of scattered selfhood. 

Additionally, “Cellophane” the album’s aforementioned closing track, has a stunningly cinematic music video. It begins with a pole dance performed by none other than FKA twigs herself. Slowly, the pole morphs into a metallic mythological creature. The creature’s mask melts away to reveal a replication of the musician’s face—possibly suggesting a commentary on uncovering divinity within humanity. As FKA twigs belts the final chorus, “And didn’t I do it for you? / Why don’t I do it for you? / Why won’t you do it for me / when all I do is for you?” the musician falls from the sky. The combination of FKA twigs’ intoxicating dancing and the dramatic Icarus-like fall, is truly beautiful, haunting, and shocking. 

All in all, MAGDALENE is an art-pop opera whose lyrics feel like a cross between a diary, a mythological legend, and a lesson on manifestation. Likewise, FKA twigs is one of the most impressive people in the music industry. Everything she produces is original and sublime. Specifically, MAGDALENE is an instant classic that draws listeners in, only to shove their faces in front of a mirror. Ultimately, FKA twigs is a work of fine art with a masterfully crafted message.

Until next week,

Claire

Photograph: i-D