![]() ![]() And on vibrant second single “Head Cheerleader,” Berrin, who identifies as queer, claims she’s “gonna marry the scariest girl on the cheerleading team” rather than forcing herself to fit into the mold of perfection, Berrin opts for embracing the weird, the scary and the unconventional, finding a palpable confidence in the process.ĭeath of a Cheerleader explores Berrin’s identity in the context of what society expects from her as a woman: the cheerleader, the high school prom queen, the one who sacrifices herself in relationships for the sake of her partner. On “Crying,” the orchestra wails freely in the final Broadway-esque chorus, adding an unavoidable layer of distress to the already-emotional track. However, the band juxtaposes this aesthetic with a messier, more imperfect vision. The songs handspring between fierce exorcisms and tender epiphanies, finding room in the middle to demonstrate just how much Pom Pom Squad is capable of.ĭeath of a Cheerleader and its accompanying imagery incorporate many themes and aesthetics of the 1950s and early 1960s, including doo-wop influences, a “Mister Sandman”-esque vibraphone line that ties the first and final tracks together, cinematic violins, and even a cover of Tommy James and the Shondells’ “Crimson + Clover.” The resulting effort is a dynamic and versatile indie rock record that serves as a thesis statement for the band. Pom Pom Squad, who signed to Berlin-based indie label City Slang earlier this year, recruited Illuminati Hotties frontwoman Sara Tudzin to co-produce alongside Berrin herself. Led by the radiant Mia Berrin, the Brooklyn four-piece’s debut album, Death of a Cheerleader, arrives tomorrow (June 25th) on the heels of two pre-pandemic EPs and an excellent cover of FKA twigs’ “Cellophane.” The world is messy, but Pom Pom Squad, Consequence’s June Artist of the Month, know exactly how to find the most beautiful parts of it.
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