DIRTY BLONDE: OUT OF THE KHIA ASYLUM ?

Nate Guenther

13 June 2026

Joshua Magazzu

Bebe Rexha has released her attempt at escaping the Khia Asylum, and it’s called Dirty Blonde. This album is a really solid attempt! The record highlights her ability to craft infectious dance-pop tracks with strong EDM influences. Throughout the record, there are also some surprisingly vulnerable moments that feature guitar driven melodies, adding emotional depth to the energetic production.

One of the album’s defining features is it’s unmistakable pop sensibility. Bebe’s way. Tracks are built on catchy hooks and driving beats, making them ready for the dance floor. The EDM influences are woven seamlessly throughout. Yet, what sets Dirty Blonde apart from other dance-pop releases is Rexha’s willingness to let her guard down. On several tracks, the inclusion of vulnerable guitar moments strips back the production, allowing her vocals and lyricism to shine and offering listeners a glimpse into her more personal side.

Tracks like “Hysteria” and “Tokyo” open the record, setting the scene with a blend of dirty, dance-pop energy that immediately draws you in. “Hysteria” pulses with an almost hard-style drop, while “Tokyo” adds a flirty, adventurous vibe, painting vivid images of late night escapades with women. Alright Miss Rexha!!! The hit from the record cycle, “New Religion,” arrives early in the tracklist and stands out as a true dancefloor anthem. The pounding production and catchy chorus make it impossible not to move to. It’s the kind of song that captures the euphoric feeling of letting go, and Rexha really delivered with that one.

Later in the album, “Cike Cike” and “i like you better than me” demonstrate her versatility. “Cike Cike” stands out with its fresh, experimental sound, mixing playful rhythms with sultry vocal delivery.  “i like you better than me” is more introspective, pairing vulnerable lyrics with dance production. These tracks aren’t far from some of my favourite Bebe songs: they showcase sides of Rexha I love and prove she’s not afraid to explore new territory.

Dirty Blonde stands as a testament to Bebe Rexha’s determination. It’s a body of work that not only demonstrates her ability to create chart-worthy hits but also reveals a more nuanced, vulnerable side. Although her original strategy of releasing a song each week with an accompanying video leading up to the album didn't come to fruition, Dirty Blonde still feels satisfying as a full project. She truly deserves to be released from the Khia Asylum with this record, but only time will tell!

rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️