Clairo is Able to ‘Charm’ Again with New Album

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Clairo’s new album ‘Charm‘ is the perfect blend of nostalgia and positive aloneness we need. It is knowing that we can long for love and affection but also have power in being alone. We all want to be ‘Sexy to Someone‘, as the second track so clearly states. We have the duality of wanting to have strength in our own opinion of ourselves, but, sometimes, we yearn for that external validation, love, and affection. “It’s not too much to ask,” Clairo sings of that affection.

Nostalgia is an overwhelming feeling but also a powerful tool for art. Moreover, all that pain and anguish of how things used to be is marvelously captured in this new LP. 

The production has this reminiscence, yet modern feeling that captures a 70’s sound combined with the contemporary touch of indie pop. The use of keys, synthesizers, and the swing of the guitars call back to the soft jazz music and Bossa Nova from the 70s, all packaged with Clairo’s beautiful vocals. They are beautiful love ballads combined with heartbreak songs that keep you engaged throughout the album.

Two of the most nostalgic songs on the project, ‘Nomad‘ and ‘Juna‘, also capture this old-school production. Furthermore, the whole record in general, has this subtle instrumental approach. Accompanied by beautiful melodies like in the song ‘Slow Dance‘ where the piano gets a few seconds of soloing that brings a sense of yearning that I haven’t felt with any other release this year.

‘Sexy to Someone‘ is the absolute standout from the album. First released as a single before the project’s release, the track is groovy and softly sung, and the lyrics are something we can all relate to. It emphasises that point in life where we need that extra validation. When we feel as if we’re a ghostlike figure that no one dares to look at, we just want to be ‘Sexy to Someone‘.

Clairo continues her journey as a producer and songwriter. After having great success with her albums ‘Immunity‘ and ‘Sling‘, ‘Charm‘ comes in as charming as the title. No song feels out of place, and the LP feels like one piece of work. I can say that it is the most cohesive record I’ve heard in 2024. The sound evolves with the project; the amount of ear candy that she drops around the songs is very subtle. When you catch the odd guitar, synth, or flute, it makes all the difference. Further to this, she has started to find her sound and evolved it to a point of wonderful musicality. What’s even more incredible is that she remains independent, being a great role model for all independent songwriters/producers as well.

Rating: 10/10

You can find Clairo on Instagram, X, and TikTok. Listen to the album below and find more album reviews here.

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