The state of pop
By Catharine Runion · Community Editor
Many people have opinions about what “the song of the summer” was, but narrowing it down is tough given how much music has dropped these past few months. Here’s a fly-by of some of the most notable album releases.
There’s a reason why “Diet Pepsi” is the only song from Addison Rae’s self-titled album that went quasi-viral. Lyrically shallow, vocally underwhelming and musically monotonous, each track blends together. She idolizes star power and makes a bid to have her heartthrob moment, but she makes sure you hear about the challenges that come with fame.
That being said, this kind of music has a place … maybe not as the album of the summer, but perhaps in a hair salon? Note to the artist: we’re running out of sympathy for rich influencers who think their lives are difficult!
If all you know about Benson Boone is his backflips and the “moonbeam ice cream” TikTok memes, you’re missing out, because that’s actually the worst song on the album. The rest of “American Heart” offers a refreshing dose of vulnerable masculinity, as Boone reflects on heartbreak, nostalgia and family.
It pulls slightly on the work of Bruce Springsteen, Freddie Mercury and Electric Light Orchestra, bringing it all together with soul and personality. Note to the artist: you could win a competition with that Adele impression!
Conan Gray’s “Wishbone” should be your go-to if you’re deep in your feels. Gray gives the impression of an indie male counterpart to artists like Chappell Roan. There’s yearning, there’s dysfunctional family, there’s toxic relationships and there’s a whole lot of “sad boy” energy.
Conan clearly had an axe to grind against an ex or two in this album with his raw lyrics and smooth vocals. Note to the artist: is it possible you need to unpack your questionable taste in partners?
“SWAG” is Justin Bieber’s first album release since 2021. The former heartthrob has been making more headlines for being overshadowed by his model wife than for his music, but he’s finally back and it’s produced some mixed results. He tends to fall into the same trope — white boy tries to be gangster — and some songs definitely don’t depict a married man.
Still, songs like “GO BABY” reflect a much healthier love, the type one would hope he actually has in his life. Overall, it’s not the worst album; it’s a bit shallow, a little repetitive, but not bad by any stretch. Note to the artist: vulnerability is more than just referencing “the highs and lows” over and over again.
