American indie-pop star Clairo has returned after a three-year hiatus with her latest album, “Charm.” This self-produced record, co-produced by Leon Michels, ditches the bedroom pop vibes of her previous albums for a 70s-inspired sound. After captivating the world with her viral bedroom pop anthems on her 2019 debut “Immunity,” Clairo could have easily replicated that success. However, with “Charm,” her third studio album, she takes a bold step away from familiar territory, crafting an album that’s both sophisticated and deeply personal.
Clairo’s Artistic Evolution
Gone are the lo-fi beats of her early work. “Charm” is lightyears ahead of her previous album “Sling,” but still with similar feeling. This shift in sound reflects Clairo’s own artistic evolution through the years.
The album opens with “Nomad,” a smooth track that sets the tone for the record. Clairo’s vocals are breathy and effortless. She sings about how, deep down, she craves a connection, a feeling of being seen and understood. While she longs for a deeper love, she might settle for fleeting moments of attention, even if it means a superficial encounter. The loneliness of being single for so long makes her yearn for any kind of human connection, even if it’s temporary, just like a nomad looking for a place to stay.
The next track, “Sexy to Someone,” is a delightful shift. This song is a playful exploration of self-confidence and finding your own brand of attraction. She yearns for the romance she sees on screen, she longs to feel desired the way movie characters seem to be. However, her life rarely mirrors these dramatic encounters, leaving her with a sense of disconnect between fantasy and reality.
The Emotional Depth of “Charm”
“Charm” delves deeper than just fleeting desires. Tracks like “Second Nature” capture the intoxicating intensity of new love, with guitars and layered vocals creating a dreamy atmosphere. In contrast, “Slow Dance” explores the bittersweet emotions of a fading relationship, the delicate melody and Clairo’s hushed vocals capturing the heartache and vulnerability of letting go.
Despite venturing into new territory sound-wise, Clairo retains the introspective lyricism that has always been a hallmark of her music. Songs like “Terrapin” and “Pier 4” showcase her ability to weave relatable stories of solitude and self-discovery. “Pier 4,” the album’s closer, uses the simple act of striking matches and listening to sad music to paint a picture of a young person dealing with loneliness and the desire for connection. This introspective song captures the common struggle of feeling like an outsider, misunderstood and unseen by the world.
A Summer Soundtrack
“Charm” is a captivating listen, perfect for a laid-back summer evening. With its rich soundscapes and introspective lyrics, “Charm” is sure to solidify Clairo’s place as a leading voice in indie music. Clairo sheds her bedroom pop skin, revealing a more mature and confident artist unafraid to experiment and delve into the emotional complexities of modern relationships. This evolution, coupled with her undeniable songwriting talent, solidifies Clairo’s place as a leading voice in indie music, one to leave a lasting impact on this generation.
