Definition
“Astrid” is a 2020 single by American hyperpop musician Glaive, released as the lead track from his debut extended play (EP) Cypress Grove.
Overview
The song was self‑released on 29 June 2020 and recorded in Glaive’s bedroom in Hendersonville, North Carolina. Glaive (Ash Gutierrez) performed, wrote, mixed and mastered the track, while production was handled by FromTheHeart. After its release the song garnered critical praise, appearing on several year‑end best‑of‑2020 lists (e.g., Noisey, The Fader) and receiving notable attention on YouTube through fan‑made anime music videos. A music video directed by Charlie Grant and Hunter Ray Barker premiered on 17 February 2021.
Etymology / Origin
The title “Astrid” references a real‑life girl who inspired part of the lyrical content. Glaive has stated that the subject’s name is similar to “Astrid,” and he chose the name to avoid using her actual name for legal reasons.
Characteristics
- Genre & Style – An emo‑leaning hyperpop track that blends a melodic guitar line, electronic textures, a footwork‑style programmed kick drum, and pitched‑up vocal processing. Critics have compared its sonic palette to 100 Gecs and American Football, noting its “pop‑pierced” aggression and “restless” creativity.
- Length – 1 minute 41 seconds.
- Composition – The song opens with a concise guitar riff that leads into a minimal chorus featuring slurred, pitched‑up vocals and a punchy drum pattern. Its structure is concise, cycling through intro, verse, chorus, bridge, and an abrupt fade‑out.
- Lyrics – Centered on teenage angst and youthful romance, the lyrics juxtapose witty wordplay (“Yeah you look so pretty in that dress, but I’d look better”) with themes of insecurity and longing.
- Production – Recorded entirely in a home studio, the track showcases lo‑fi bedroom production values while maintaining a polished, high‑energy mix.
- Reception – Praised for songwriting maturity, melodic hook, and inventive production. It was cited among the best songs of 2020 by publications such as Noisey (3rd) and The Fader (6th).
Related Topics
- Glaive – The stage name of Ash Gutierrez, a prominent figure in the hyperpop movement.
- Cypress Grove – The EP that includes “Astrid” and other early singles (“Sick,” “Pissed,” “Touchè,” “Eyesore”).
- Hyperpop – A micro‑genre blending pop, electronic, and avant‑garde elements, of which Glaive is a notable practitioner.
- 2020 in music – Yearly overview of notable releases and trends, including hyperpop’s rise.
- Music video directed by Charlie Grant and Hunter Ray Barker – Visual accompaniment featuring farm animals and a dancing figure, contributing to the song’s cultural footprint.