Claire Cottrill, known by her moniker Clairo, returns with her third studio album, Charm. At 25, Clairo has become quite the luminary in the indie pop scene.
This release cements her position. Charm is a collaborative effort with Leon Michels, famed for his soul-revival work, and together, they craft an album that leans into ’70s-inspired pop with a modern twist. The album’s eleven tracks offer a lush, reflective journey that bridges the gaps between pop, adult contemporary, and R&B.
Opening with ‘Nomad’, Clairo sets a tone of rhythmic sophistication with higher-mixed drums and tight songwriting. The track establishes an inviting atmosphere that flows seamlessly into the album. ‘Sexy to Someone’ stands out with its clever exploration of desire and identity, driven by upbeat drum shuffles and subtle synthesiser stabs. The hook-laden ‘Add Up My Love’ showcases Clairo’s knack for creating catchy, danceable tunes that evoke the golden era of Fleetwood Mac.
‘Second Nature’ and ‘Slow Dance’ demonstrate Clairo’s ability to combine detailed melodies with suggestive lyrics. The former’s Beatles-esque breakdowns and the latter’s mix of Norah Jones, Elton John, and Steely Dan influences underline this versatility. ‘Terrapin’ and ‘Juna’ further demonstrate her range, with dense arrangements and tricky vocal layers that keep the listener engaged.
Leon Michels’ production of Charm is a masterclass in analogue sound. Michels complements Clairo’s whisper-soft vocals with a fatty, textured backdrop using vintage synthesisers, horns, and woodwinds. The use of Mellotron flutes and warm reverb on tracks like ‘Terrapin’ and ‘Pier’ adds a nostalgic yet fresh feel. Michels’ touch ensures that while Clairo’s sound evolves, it retains the intimate charm that fans adore.
Charm’s standout tracks:
- Nomad: The album opener that sets a sophisticated, rhythmic tone with higher-mixed drums and tight songwriting, creating an inviting atmosphere.
- Sexy to Someone: A clever exploration of desire and identity, driven by upbeat drum shuffles and subtle synthesiser stabs, making it a standout for its lyrical depth and catchy melody.
- Add Up My Love: A danceable tune that evokes the golden era of Fleetwood Mac, showcasing Clairo’s knack for creating catchy, memorable songs.
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