Reinterpreting the legendary tracks of bands that have already achieved global fame is no simple task. However, this only signifies a challenge for the artist who wants to rethink art. With love, dedication, and tenderness, singer and producer Allie Goertz has released the tribute album “Peeled Back” featuring music by Nine Inch Nails. The release includes 15 songs that have been reimagined and, one might even say, enhanced and highlighted. Taking on such a unique band as Nine Inch Nails is no easy task, especially in the context of reinterpretation. However, what is most important is that Allie Goertz has preserved the mystery and magic of the originals, while presenting them in a new, misty, and dreamy way.

For example, the first track “Closer” is performed in a light misty pop style, maintaining the rhythmic tone, yet Allie Goertz changes its intensity. I like how this track sounds in Allie Goertz’s rendition. Such an innovative approach unveils familiar melodies from a new perspective, offering as if a new side of the looking glass. Isn’t that wonderful? With the help of gentle violins, and unique sound alterations reminiscent of spatial distortion and incredible theatricality, Allie Goertz preserves the cosmic essence of the original, seasoning it with passion. While listening to “Peeled Back: A Tribute to Nine Inch Nails,” one feels as though a red bitter mist fills the mind. This is very palpable through “Big Man with a Gun” and “We’re in This Together.” In “Big Man with a Gun,” warm synth beats and soft keys create an excellent accompaniment, enhancing the lyrics of the song, and the light duality of the sound creates a subtle anxiety.

The fact is, Allie Goertz masterfully controls emotions and expresses them through exquisite vocal techniques. The lightness of the melody and the intentionally accelerated rhythm make you want to look over your shoulder. Is there really no one else in the room? While the original sound was always more straightforward for me, Allie Goertz’s rendition is undoubtedly deeper and more focused on a subconscious search for meaning. Interesting! “We’re in This Together” features a soothing wave of gentle guitars interrupted by bright keys and Allie Goertz’s backing vocals. The lush performance creates a hypnotic tone, and the impeccable arrangement makes this song magical and dramatic. The play with tonalities and pitch creates what seems like two voices intertwining, generating new sensations during the listening experience. This vocal dialogue sounds especially cosmic and cinematic. I can easily envision a movie scene where this track would shine the brightest.

I love how in “March of the Pigs” Allie Goertz preserved the dark atmosphere of the original, adding her charm and gentle melancholy. The swaying violins, resonant guitars, and Allie Goertz’s voice shift the album’s sound towards a dark pop aesthetic. While the first part of the album might seem like a benchmark for pop music lovers, in “March of the Pigs,” new lyrical forms emerge, with a free handling of lyrics and atmosphere. The space seems to expand, creating a sense of a performance, especially when applause bursts into consciousness. Can I compare this track to a scene from Mulholland Drive theater? Yes, because by the final chords, the strong sense of mystery mentally brought me precisely to that scene. But to maintain balance, in the next track “The Hand That Feeds,” Allie Goertz’s voice rises high and sounds light, like a bell. This shift in atmosphere dissolves into light tones, making the heart stop, especially in the emotional conclusion of the track. “The Becoming” holds a special place in my heart thanks to Allie Goertz’s emotional performance, textured harmonies, and complex arrangement. It is a very emotional, deep, and atmospheric song that seems to balance between two worlds. You definitely need to listen to “The Becoming” because it is here that the hidden energy of Allie Goertz, which has been playing between the beats all along, seems to awaken.

“Right Where it Belongs” sounds airy, like the best dream pop tracks. It is a gentle ballad that speaks directly to the listener’s heart. All you need to do is close your eyes, listen, and enjoy the tenderness that makes everything feel light and beautiful. But the brightest moment is saved for the end. The album concludes with “Wish,” the most grandiose song that can either break your heart or put it back together from pieces. Incredible style, energy, duality! It’s as if anxiety and ease dance their final dance. This is something you need not just to listen to, but to hear. Thanks to the excellent sound, performance, and hard work on the release, everyone can feel it.

I recommend this album not only to Nine Inch Nails fans but also to those who love emotional sound and beautiful alt pop music. On the other hand, such a bold reimagining of the sound gives fans of other genres a chance to touch the songs of Nine Inch Nails. This album is created with love and inspired by it. You can feel it both in the production and in Allie Goertz’s performance. The album “Peeled Back” is available on all digital platforms, and follow Allie Goertz on social media to stay updated on new releases. Allie Goertz’s music is something that will touch your heart forever.

• Instagram

Published in partnership with SubmitHub