ARI Impresses With Debut EP ‘IDIOT GRL’

Rising artist ARI has released her debut EP IDIOT GRL, accompanied by a music video for the project’s title track, out now. The five-track EP features previous singles “Cold War” and “Oh Well”, showcasing ARI’s versatility as she refuses to limit her sound to one specific genre.

IDIOT GRL sees the 21-year-old Toronto native at her most vulnerable – through candid and conversational lyrics reminiscent of a diary entry, the EP tackles themes of mental health, self-worth, and the unattainable ideals of perfection.

Opening with “All Dressed Up”, ARI draws listeners in with her sinister yet seductive tones. She then enlists the talents of DeathbyRomy on “See Through”, who co-wrote and co-produced the unapologetically vengeful track. The EP shifts gears sonically with the R&B-inspired “Oh Well”, produced by frequent collaborator Cambo (Doja Cat). ARI’s vocals soar on the alt-pop anthem “Cold War”, as she struggles to blend her two worlds in Toronto and Los Angeles, followed by the final track “IDIOT GRL”, which tells the unfiltered story of her childhood.

Speaking on the project, ARI explains: “This EP has been my baby since 2020 began, however it was conceived long before this year. It is a culmination of the deeply personal inner workings of my brain and the story of how I became me. How I took the self-deprecating title of ‘IDIOT GRL’ and turned it into a persona I am proud to now own.”

In addition to the EP release, ARI has treated fans to a music video for “IDIOT GRL”. Directed by Lebni Avitia, the video shows ARI reflecting on her youth in her childhood bedroom. She unveils her insecurities and how they shape her today – from embracing her multiracial identity growing up in a predominantly white community and difficulty making friends, to internal pressures to excel in all aspects of her life. “IDIOT GRL” puts ARI’s biggest fears center stage – quite literally – as she faces those negative thoughts head on.

With recent performances including Together Toronto’s drive-in concert series and an upcoming Bandsintown LIVE virtual event, ARI continues to establish herself as a star in the making. The release of her debut EP marks the next chapter in ARI’s career as she claims her space in the pop world and beyond.

IDIOT GRL is now available worldwide across all streaming platforms.