Rebecca Lappa – “Lolita” (Single Review)

Jenna Melanson·April 17, 2023

Rebecca Lappa releases second single, “Lolita” from upcoming EP, Tales of a Taurus

Alberta-based musician Rebecca Lappa returns with her new indie-pop single “Lolita.”

“Lolita” is the second single from Rebecca’s new EP Tales of a Taurus, which is set for release on May 5 via Tonic Records/Fontana. After returning to music with her acclaimed single, “Blue Lips,” Rebecca continues in the same indie pop vein on her latest release. With its addictive chorus and steady beat, ‘Lolita’ is another slice of 80s-tinged intelligent pop, revealing a darker undertone upon deeper inspection. Loosely taking inspiration from the 1955 book written by Vladimir Nabokov, ‘Lolita’ follows the unnerving path the story takes, one of lust and desire in a sinister situation. Co-written by Rebecca and her producer Louise Burns, the track gradually builds with unease as the craving for control intensifies.

“The song touches on the two main characters in the book alluding to the forbidden nature of the relationship between an older man and a much younger woman and the frenetic dynamic between the two,” says Rebecca. “The muted guitars fill the track with urgency and the heartbeat of the kick drum lends commentary on the perceived sexuality and innocence of young women as interpreted by male audiences, while the careful layering of synth and harmonies leads to an anthemic chorus.”

Review

With a vibrant and infectious beat, “Lolita” showcases Rebecca’s vocals, which touch on various styles throughout the track—beginning with a beautiful soaring style transforming into an anthemic and emotive croon, and finishing with a raw, passionate vibe.

Throughout the track, the instrumentation shines, intertwining perfectly with the vocals, creating a fully immersive experience.

On the infectious chorus, Rebecca chants, “You crave control, Tonight let it all go, Your hands her clothes, Moonlight, No one else knows, Ohhhhh, You need her, Ohhhh, Lolita,” over a pulsing beat. I repeatedly sang the chorus throughout the day, proving the addictive quality.

Overall “Lolita” is a perfect showcase of Rebecca’s style, combining catchy pop hooks with expressive lyrics, sure to leave you anxiously awaiting the upcoming EP, Tales of a Taurus.