Alternative Pop from Strange DNA

London-based artist Jessica English is the creative figure behind Strange DNA, a dark alternative pop project that lands in the overlap between emotion, distortion and imagination. Taking cues from the stranger parts of ourselves that we’re often encouraged to hide, Jessica transforms feelings of isolation, difference and self-discovery into cinematic soundscapes, vivid visuals and stories designed for outsiders. Across its music and visual output, Strange DNA explores the space between beauty and darkness, finding something powerful in the things that don’t fit into the ordinary.

Ideas of identity and transformation act as creative fuel, with Strange DNA viewing the hidden parts of ourselves not as weaknesses to overcome but as elements worth understanding. Monsters and horror imagery become metaphors for identity, representing the unfamiliar aspects of ourselves that can initially feel frightening but ultimately become symbols of individuality and strength. This perspective gives the project its unique atmosphere, where haunting melodies meet cinematic electronic production, while surreal visuals and horror-inspired imagery create an immersive universe around the music.

Strange DNA draws from dark pop, synth-driven electronic music and cult cinema, combining sound and visual storytelling to explore what it means to search for where you truly belong. Those ideas now come into focus on the debut single titled “Cry,” an emotional and atmospheric track that introduces the world of Strange DNA. Exploring isolation, the complicated relationship people can have with themselves and the way others see them, the song’s darkness is never entirely without hope and the tension between the two becomes part of the track’s fabric.

Created from the perspective of a queer artist facing themes of self-discovery and feeling like an outsider, “Cry” approaches difference as something that can become a source of power. Within the world of Strange DNA, the feeling of not belonging becomes part of the process of discovering who you are and what makes you unique. Wrapped up in a moody alternative electronic pop setting, the track forms with the pulse of buzzy synth notes before the snap of rattling drums infects a steady forward motion and Jessica’s airy voice enters to dance above with lively delivery.

Flowing through an uplifting chorus where shimmering synth textures and punchy drums underpin fluttering vocal leads, the track serves up a sound that’s infectious, energising and thematically engaging all at once. Pairing driving rhythm with stacks of synths to for a wholly absorbing soundscape, “Cry” delivers an epic musical moment that’s impossible not to love. At once danceable and dreamy, it’s a stunning showcase of Strange DNA’s songwriting flair and performance panache while marking her artistic entrance in spectacular fashion.

With early support from independent radio stations and growing interest from alternative music communities, Strange DNA is already making an impact in the dark pop and electronic music spheres. “Cry” marks the beginning of a journey that sees Strange DNA take the emotions we’re often encouraged to hide and turns them into compelling musical expression. As Strange DNA shares more of her unique musical vision, we can’t wait to see what else she’s got in store on what’s sure to be her breakout year as an exciting new artist on the rise.

Commenting on the release, she shares, “Cry explores the space between who you were and who you’re becoming. It’s about shedding the identities placed on us, embracing the strange parts of ourselves and finding beauty in transformation.”

Listen to Cry below

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