After School EP

Released in 2020 as a companion to the K-12 era, After School represents Melanie Martinez's first significant departure from the 'Cry Baby' conceptual universe. While her previous work relied heavily on childhood metaphors to explore trauma and social issues, this EP features more direct, autobiographical songwriting. Produced largely by Blake Slatkin, the project leans into a more contemporary alt-pop and R&B sound, utilizing trap-influenced percussion and sophisticated vocal layering. The lead single 'The Bakery' became a standout for its infectious rhythm and relatable narrative about grueling service-industry work. Critically, the EP was noted for its growth in lyrical depth and its ability to maintain Martinez's signature 'twisted' aesthetic while exploring more mature, grounded themes such as the pressures of the music industry and the complexities of human attachment. It serves as a bridge between her early character-driven work and her later, more experimental transformations.