The Album

Hello and happy Saturday! I’d like to start the weekend off by reviewing this five song EP by Ariel Factor Birdoff (also known as Madam Pince and the Librarians) called “guides not gatekeepers.” Written during quarantine, this EP was released on January 11, 2021. I personally love Ariel’s songs, so I’m very excited that these five were released this year. Quick warning: three songs on this EP are marked as “explicit” so keep that in mind before listening!

The Tracks

I was not prepared for the absolutely sick beat that starts off the song Welcome Back to the Library. Ariel raps for two and a half minutes about how awesome the library is (and should be). Getting rid of outdated books, organizing, and stocking inclusive books are just a few of the topics in this song. It’s perfect to listen to if you need a boost of motivation or inspiration to get something done. What a great way to start off this EP!

Another dope beat accompanies the next song, No More Restrictions. Including a long list of books from the wizarding world, Ariel sings about how there are no more restricted books in the library. The chorus is backed up by an awesome electric guitar melody.

Sh*sh (explicit) is next on the EP. Madam Pince isn’t messing around with this library, which is filled with maker spaces, extracurricular clubs, and – of course – books! I love how the lyrics continue to be inclusive; it makes an already great song even better.

In response to JKR’s transphobia, Rogue Librarian (explicit) tells about how Madam Pince is no longer playing by the rules set by the author. This is my favorite song on the EP. Inclusivity is partnered with a no-tolerance policy for hate, discrimination, or racism.

Don’t have access to the Hogwarts library? No worries – you can go to the Muggle Library (explicit) instead! This song outlines all the awesome things that come with a library – free books, a recording studio, story hours, and much, much more! I was particularly impressed with Ariel’s vocals in this one, specifically the quick rhymes.

In Summary

The inclusion that is prevalent throughout this EP paired with excellent backing tracks makes this a wonderful EP to listen to if you want to feel like a boss. Huge props to Ariel for bringing us library rock – I absolutely love it and I hope you do too! Overall, I give this EP a rating of 10,000 non-dog-eared books!