"Missing U" by Robyn - Single Review

   Though she did not completely vanish off the pop music landscape, having released joint projects with both Röyksopp and La Bagatelle Magique in 2014 and 2015, Swedish singer-songwriter finally makes her highly anticipated solo return with the recent premiere of rousing, electro-charged "Missing U", her first single release since 2011.

   We've missed her.

   "Missing U" finds the dance artist desperately searching for remnants of a previous relationship, longing for a scent on a pillow that's now faded or searching pockets for a lost last note, working to fill a void left behind by a significant other. With a heart-wrenching vulnerability on display in her vocal delivery, the highlight of previous signature releases such as "Dancing On My Own" and "Indestructible", Robyn is left broken and figuring out how to mask the pain.

   On the surface, Robyn could be detailing the aftermath of a romantic break-up on "Missing U", tears falling when thinking of all the plans they made that never happened. She could be directing the message to the fans she has missed, as she stated in the promotional video, now more optimistic and encouraged by the reunion. But by looking at the release as a reflection on death and ultimate loss, the encompassing trademark synths become much more heavy and impactful.

   With glossy electronic production at the forefront -- one should not expect any less from Robyn -- and thoughtful, authentic songwriting, the new release becomes a much needed emotional escape for both artist and listener. "There's this empty space you left behind, now you're not here with me, I keep digging through our waste of time, but the picture's incomplete, "she laments on the thumping chorus.

   The five-minute release comes off as an out-of-body experience, a peek back into reality from the afterlife realm. "Missing U" forces one to focus attention on despair, to sadly reminisce on the joy and good times now forever lost. However, moments of hope are sprinkled throughout, as if Robyn has somehow quickly relieved herself of the unfortunate. From a grim point of critique, has the artist too completely faded from existence, relieved and now at ease?

   Eight years is a long time between solo projects. Thankfully, Robyn makes the comeback appear absolutely effortless. "Missing U" is a sad bop that cleverly bares shimmering similarities with the artist's pop perfect Body Talk era, yet hints at a new creative road soon to be traveled. Attention to storytelling is the song's most crucial element while technicolor dashes of a promise to push forward allows an enlightening, encouraging message to linger.

   "All the love you gave, it still defines me"... then it all comes to an abrupt end.