BANKS – “Off With Her Head”

Schrödinger’s cat is one of the most famous thought experiments in quantum mechanics—a paradox where a Schrödinger’s cat is one of the most famous thought experiments in quantum mechanics—a paradox where a cat exists in a state of being both alive and dead until observed. It’s a perfect metaphor for the human mind: we often anticipate the worst, fearing an outcome that remains unknown until we take action.

This concept came to mind as I listened to BANKS’ new album, Off With Her Head. The record feels like a collection of her ‘what ifs’ and intrusive thoughts, condensed into 12 tracks over 35 minutes. BANKS’  music has always been smoky, seductive, and metaphorical, and this album is no exception The opening track, “Guillotine”,  immediately sets the tone. With an almost siren-like vocal delivery, BANKS commands attention as she sings, ‘You talk, put the tape on your mouth and your head on the block.’  The imagery suggests cutting problems off at the source—an overarching theme throughout the album. It’s a strong and assertive introduction, reinforcing her signature dark-pop aesthetic.

The second track, “I Hate Your Ex-Girlfriend”,  is undeniably catchy and the perfect way to kick off a Friday night. The hook—’I hate your ex-girlfriend‘ —is simple yet effective, proving that sometimes the best hooks don’t need to be overcomplicated. The beat builds with tension, and just when you think you know where it’s headed, Doechii jumps in with her signature high-energy delivery. Her fiery verse completely shifts the mood, bringing a raw and almost chaotic intensity. The lyrics tap into a universal feeling: How could your ex ever compete with me? If she was so great, she’d still have you.

One of the album’s standout moments is “Love Is Unkind”. It draws you in with a captivating beat, but the lyrics hit even harder. BANKS reflects on a toxic, undefined relationship—one filled with emotional games, secrecy, and dishonesty. She details the pain of watching someone move on because they refused to commit. The line ‘Simon says by the fire: I did what you said and got caught, and you’re not‘ perfectly captures that moment of betrayal—following someone’s lead, only to end up burned. It’s reminiscent of Tove Lo’s “Come Undone”,  another song about the eternal battle between the head and the heart.

As a longtime fan of BANKS, I was eager for this album, hoping it would capture the same magic as her debut, Goddess. While Off With Her Head has its high points, it doesn’t fully reach the same emotional depth. There are moments of brilliance, but the album as a whole left me longing for her earlier work. That said, BANKS’ ability to create music that feels like both a confession and a confrontation remains undeniable.