Mimi Barks: Dreamstate Of Fear
Mimi Barks’ latest EP, Dreamstate Of Fear, is darker and heavier than any of her previous releases. Deeply human, it balances distorted aggression with emotional vulnerability, while showcasing the signature blend of industrial metal and trap that Barks forged through Berlin’s underground scene. Each track feels purposeful, and several are sure to become fan favourites.
The opener, ‘Dreamstate of Hell’, explores the idea that heaven and hell are not just destinations in the afterlife, but experiences we face in our everyday lives. "This life's a living hell/ A dreamstate of fear/ We wear the pain too well/ We love how it feels" acknowledges the pain that can come with living, while reminding listeners that better times are ahead. Barks also encourages us to make positive choices rather than those that lead to destruction. "If one word is a spell/ You seize the power" reinforces the idea that our actions and words have the power to shape both our own lives and the world around us.
The intensity continues with ‘Ophelia’, which features some of the EP’s heaviest riffs and feels tailor-made for the live environment. Its crushing instrumentals provide the backdrop for lyrics that confront feelings of despair, with Barks admitting, "No one there to save me when I drown". The track’s emotional honesty makes it one of the EP’s most relatable moments, reminding listeners that they are far from alone in experiencing these emotions.
‘Jericho’ shifts the focus towards personal transformation, pairing huge, anthemic choruses with a message of perseverance. Barks openly addresses intrusive thoughts, singing, "The voice in my head says I'm better off dead/ But I'm more than the weight of the thoughts". Rather than surrendering to self-doubt, the song encourages listeners to confront their inner demons head-on, making it one of the EP’s most empowering moments.
Previously released single ‘Power Dutch Verrat’ stands out as one of Dreamstate Of Fear's defining highlights. Performed entirely in German, it delivers explosive choruses and explosive energy that feel destined to ignite crowds during live performances, which often resemble emotional exorcisms more than conventional concerts. Beneath its intensity lies a powerful reminder to stay connected to your roots, even when life takes you far from home.
Closing track ‘Butterfly in Chains’ balances moments of vulnerability with industrial chaos as Barks explores a toxic relationship in which the narrator feels deprived of the love and appreciation she deserves. Its lyrics capture the pain of emotional exploitation, while reminding listeners of the importance of feeling safe, valued and supported in healthy relationships.
Overall, Dreamstate Of Feardraws listeners deeper into Mimi Barks’ doom trap world. Every track is filled with heaviness and emotion, creating songs that are as impactful on record as they are likely to be in a live setting. By continuing to blur the lines between trap and industrial metal, Barks further cements her distinctive sound, making Dreamstate Of Fearan EP that is difficult to ignore and leaves plenty to be excited about for whatever comes next.