Kris Speaks Only the Truth in Heartbreaking New Track, “The Man.”

Kris, the musical artist known for her distinct vocal style and poignant lyrics, delivers an electrifying performance in her latest EP release, “Where do I Begin.” The second track, “The Man,” is a resounding drop that delves into the dark issues of gender-based violence and the root cause of the problem.

In “The Man,” Kris adopts a bluesier sound that expertly captures the desperation and disappointment of those who have been victimized by toxic masculinity. Using gender-inclusive terms such as “people in pain” emphasizes the universality of the issue while highlighting the damaging impact that patriarchal cultural norms play in our society.

As Kris navigates the fraught terrain of gender-based violence, she deftly connects these issues to the root cause: how society treats children. Her powerful message speaks to the importance of dismantling the attitudes and beliefs that perpetuate harmful gender norms and the need to create a more equitable world for future generations.

Kris taps into her compassionate, bluesy contralto on the commanding “The Man.” Within this piece, she goes for a sorrowful atmosphere. The lyrics focus on toxic masculinity destroying everything, from gender-based violence to the destruction of young boys and their potentially kinder side. Word choice matters extensively, for they explore this idea of hardness, the hardship inflicted on the world and everyone. The piano goes for the impressionist, with the dramatic flourishes suggesting some of Debussy’s more emotional work rather than something more formal. Going for these glossy hues adds to the infinite sadness that emerges and unravels. Deep within the piece her classical upbringing and study of music theory add to the heft of the message.

The mood starts before the melody. She allows the gestures to amplify in the vast space. The echoes in the expanse give the track this strong spirit of such dignity. Nothing is held back, with her work drawing close comparisons to the likes of Fiona Apple’s tortured characters. Unlike those characterizations, this piece has a more universal theme, a shared suffering affecting everyone. Elements of the work begin to focus with each additional reiteration of the theme, emphasizing the loneliness and hurt that the world has perpetuated for almost all of human history. A desire to get the emotions out of young boys, of succumbing to their cruel whims, adds to the tragedy of the tale.

“The Man” features an in-depth exploration as Kris reflects upon society with cutting insight.