Vietnamese female pop star wows American online music publication

“The latest album from the Vietnamese pop artist is an empowering statement of purpose, at its best when pairing evocative storytelling with theatrical, large-scale production.”

Pitchfork compliments the 34-year-old artist for writing songs “replete with messages about finding joy in every moment” and hails her “slick” ability to maneuver between rapping and singing.

The album review pointed out that her music has become more distinctive while encompassing inspiration from a wide range of cultures.

It incorporates grandiose instrumentation; racing synth melodies and trap drums; rattling percussion and pogoing electronics; breezy disco-funk and filler words “la la la” that appear throughout traditional folk songs.

“Her playful navigation of Vietnam past and present, something central to her art, exists even here.”

“Link” received a score of 7.2, no little achievement compared to Pitchfork’s high standards.

This is the third Vietnamese album ever reviewed by Pitchfork, following indie band Ran Cap Duoi’s “Ngu Ngay Ngay Ngay Tan The” (rough translation: Sleep On Doomsday) with 7.8 points and indie artist Tran Uy Duc’s “Came” with 7.2 points.

The album earned a higher mark than some of the albums from major artists, including Taylor Swift’s “Lover” (7.1), and K-pop boyband BTS’ “Be” (7.0).