Erika M. Anderson, known professionally as EMA, has released a brand new song, “MopTops (Twist While The World Stops)” in addition to announcing the release of a new EP, Outtakes From Exile, set to be released on February 2nd via City Slang records. The EP is a collection of previously unreleased tracks from her most recent full-length album, Exile in the Outer Ring, which came out earlier this year, winning EMA plenty of critical acclaim for her eclectic blend of soundscapes (check out mxdwn’s review here).

“MopTops (Twist While the World Stops)” rides a slick and propulsive synth bass line along with a laid-back set of electronic percussion over which EMA soars with her trademark croon. The song also features some heavily distorted lead guitar work, adding a hard edge to portions of the track. Lyrically, the song is centered around themes of living in a world on the brink of nuclear war, as was the case in the 50’s in 60’s as tensions heightened between the USSR and USA and is the case now as the hostilities between America and North Korea continue to escalate.

EMA has become known for her outspoken political views, particularly earlier this year as claims from the singer surfaced that her regular record label, Matador, were opposed to releasing the anti-Trump themed Exile in the Outer Ring, fearing that it was too anti-mainstream. The record wound up being distributed on German label City Slang.

EMA has had a productive year, releasing a series of visually stunning music videos and receiving critical acclaim for Exile in the Outer Ring. The singer will be touring Europe this winter having landed a coveted opening spot for Depeche Mode.

You can watch “MopTops (Twist While the World Stops)” in the player below.

Outtakes From Exile tracklist: