mxmtoon, the indie pop artist also known as Maia, landed a unique role as an artist, offering her voice for the latest installment in the “Life is Strange” game series, “Life is Strange: True Colors.”

Following its release, mxmtoon put out an extended playlist containing the four songs used in it: “in the darkness,” “creep,” “blister in the sun” and “every wave.” This is the first release mxmtoon has made since the release of the studio album “dawn & dusk,” and it did not disappoint. 

One of the most compelling aspects of mxmtoon as an artist is her range in tone and her unique ability to convey emotion. The first release of the EP came with a cover of Radiohead’s “creep.” mxmtoon was able to encapsulate the feelings of despair and longing through echoing, rasping vocals and dreamlike instrumentals. The cover is strong in its own sense, adding elements of her own style while sticking to the basic framework of the original song. Not only was this song the right decision for a single release, it was something that listeners did not know that they needed to hear. 

Sticking with themes of longing and trying to find oneself, “blister in the sun” proves to be a subtle anthem for those who know what they want. The chorus “Let me go on/Like I blister in the sun/Let me go on/Big hands, I know you’re the one” expresses the desire to continue towards something without reservation. 

This follows along with the storyline of the game, as the main character, Alex Chen, attempts to solve the mystery of her brother’s death while going through a journey of self discovery. “Blister in the sun” encapsulates the feelings of wanting to continue living despite hardships and struggles and mxmtoon’s unique talent is showcased wonderfully through this cover as well. 

In an interview with Game Rant, a company dedicated to reviews, insight, discussion and analysis of video games, mxmtoon spoke about her contributions with the song “into the darkness.” 

“I think that I tried to be a friend for her, and I think that’s what that song is really about,” mxmtoon said. “It’s just about trying to find some hope in the darkness.”

Lyrics including “you helped me see the light/The dim fluorescent flicker/In a dark, defeated night” showcase that desire to find hope in darkness and mxmtoon’s imagery is proven to be one of her best lyrical qualities.

mxmtoon has shown her worth as a young artist since the beginning of her career and this new chapter is an exciting one for mxmtoon fans.

Image from mxmtoon via YouTube