Sad13, the enigmatic solo project of Speedy Ortiz's Sadie Dupuis, has just unveiled a new mixtape, 1331, marking her first release since 2020's Haunted Paintings. This highly anticipated project comes as a breath of fresh air after the stressful promotion of Speedy Ortiz's 2023 album, Rabbit Rabbit, which delved into childhood trauma. The creation of 1331 was sparked by a 'mini nervous breakdown' in spring 2024, providing Dupuis with a unique creative outlet. However, a bike crash and subsequent injury disrupted the recording process, forcing Dupuis to track in short bursts over an extended period. This unexpected detour ended up infusing the album with a broader range of influences.
What makes 1331 truly intriguing is the way it reflects Dupuis' resilience and adaptability. The mixtape is a collection of short, whimsical songs, each lasting just a minute, that promise 'whimsical fun amid noisy fury' in 'delightfully weird music'. This is a stark contrast to the intense and personal themes of Rabbit Rabbit, showcasing Dupuis' ability to channel her emotions into something entirely new. The first three tracks, 'I Am Now Completely Invisible', 'Art Institute', and 'Watermelon Manicure', offer a tantalizing glimpse into the mixtape's eclectic sound.
'I Am Now Completely Invisible' is a guitar-laden composition that showcases Dupuis' skill in crafting atmospheric and introspective melodies. 'Art Institute', on the other hand, is a Björk-influenced track that hints at the mixtape's potential for exploring diverse musical genres. 'Watermelon Manicure', with its industrial sound and disorienting vocal snippets, serves as a powerful response to the fear-mongering around Gaza solidarity encampments, demonstrating Dupuis' commitment to using her art as a tool for social commentary.
What many people don't realize is that 1331 is not just a collection of songs, but a testament to Dupuis' artistic growth and her ability to transform personal struggles into something beautiful and meaningful. The mixtape's release is a reminder that creativity can flourish even in the face of adversity, and that art can be a powerful force for both personal healing and social change. Personally, I think that 1331 is a must-listen for anyone who appreciates innovative and thought-provoking music, and I can't wait to see where Sad13 takes us next.
