Tate McRae’s third studio album, 'So Close to What,' merges thoughtful lyrics, catchy pop rhythms, and emotional openness, representing a significant moment in her journey as an artist and a young woman exploring love, fame, and self-identity.
The Canadian singer, songwriter, and dancer is back with her third album, So Close to What. At only 21 years old, McRae has already established herself in the pop music scene, but this album signifies a crucial turning point in her career. Featuring a range of dark-toned pop songs, reflective lyrics, and engaging melodies, So Close to What is a polished and fast-paced collection that highlights McRae’s development as both an artist and as a young woman confronting fame, love, and self-realization.
The album kicks off with "Miss Possessive," a bold anthem that delves into feelings of jealousy and possessiveness in relationships. McRae’s assertive vocals and memorable chorus establish the tone for an album that dares to tackle complex emotions. The lead singles — "It’s OK I’m OK," "2 Hands," and "Sports Car" — each present distinct elements. "It’s OK I’m OK" offers a light-hearted perspective on resilience after a breakup, while "2 Hands" emerges as one of McRae’s early love songs, fusing alternative and R&B elements with sultry lyrics. "Sports Car" provides a more relaxed atmosphere, expressing a longing for casual relationships.
A notable track is "Revolving Door," which illustrates the tumultuous dynamics of toxic relationships. The sorrowful melody pairs with an upbeat tempo, showcasing McRae's ability to express both frustration and longing vocally. The chorus — "But I keep coming back like a revolving door / Say I couldn’t want you less, but I just want you more" — strikes a relatable and emotionally powerful chord, making it a key feature of the album.
McRae’s introspective journey continues with "Means I Care," a slower tune that addresses her tendency to distance herself as a means of self-preservation. The heartbeat-like production and personal lyrics create a vulnerable atmosphere, with McRae singing, "If I cut you off, it just means I care / Downright shut you out, must mean that it’s going somewhere." This raw honesty in her songwriting resonates deeply with listeners who recognize similar fears about intimacy.
Collaboration is essential on So Close to What, particularly in "bloodonmyhands," featuring rapper Flo Milli. This track showcases McRae's self-assuredness in moving on from a past relationship, enhanced by Flo Milli's empowering verse. The captivating beat and playful lyrics make it a likely favorite among fans.
Another standout is "Purple Lace Bra," which combines lush strings with a trip-hop rhythm. While the song superficially addresses lust and desire, there’s a deeper commentary on the quest for validation and the intricacies of female sexuality. McRae’s genuine vulnerability emerges as she sings, "Would you hear me more if I whispered in your ear? / You only listen when I’m undressed." This moment powerfully encapsulates both personal and societal challenges.
As the album progresses, some songs risk blending together due to similar production styles. Nevertheless, McRae's vocal performances and honest lyrics keep the album's momentum intact. Tracks like "Signs" and "I Know Love" stand out with their introspective lyrics and catchy tunes. In "Signs," McRae conveys her frustration with unvoiced expectations in a relationship, while "I Know Love," featuring The Kid Laroi, explores love's addictive nature, likening it to a drug with lyrics such as, "I know love when it hits when it feels like this / It’s a little like drugs."
Throughout the album, McRae continues to examine themes of heartbreak, self-exploration, and empowerment. "Dear God" contemplates a lingering attraction to an ex-partner, while "I Am Not In Love" expresses the internal turmoil of denying feelings that are obviously present. In "Like I Do," she asserts her individuality, addressing those who mimic her yet lack authenticity.
The album concludes with "Nostalgia," a beautifully acoustic piece that acts as a reflective end. Inspired by a conversation with her father during her 2024 THINK LATER World Tour, the song discusses the inclination to dwell on the past or fret about the future, thereby missing the present. McRae's heartfelt lyrics, "I felt like I was living in this fear of the future, and living the future or the past and never ever the present," connect with anyone who has struggled with staying grounded.
So Close to What cements Tate McRae’s status as a pivotal young artist in today’s pop music landscape. The album's modern sound, influenced by early 2000s elements and layered with electronic drums, synths, and danceable basslines, positions
Farrah Fawx presents her playlist, ‘Joy Is My Genre: Escapism Through Black Music,’ which serves as both an invitation and a call to dance, to sing, and to embrace the entirety of our being, as part of Atwood Magazine's Black History Month series!
Reviewer: Otis Robinson Released: February 28, 2025 Label: Because
Fewer than five years ago, bdrmm was leading a revival of shoegaze. Soaking their riffs in distortion, the band from Yorkshire embraced
With "Hallways," the iconic punk rock band PUP from Toronto converts their most challenging experiences into relatable musical brilliance following the release of their fifth album, 'Who Will Look After the Dogs?'
Manchester rapper OneDa presents her poem, ‘THE IMPOSTER,’ which explores the struggle of being both Black and British. She reflects on her experiences as a British woman with Nigerian roots in Atwood Magazine's Black History Month series.
On May 9th, Little Simz is set to drop her new album, 'Lotus,’ through AWAL Recordings. 'Lotus,' the sixth album from the generational UK rapper, explores Simz's
Tate McRae’s third studio album, ‘So Close to What’, combines reflective lyrics, catchy pop rhythms, and deep emotional honesty, signifying a pivotal moment in her growth as both an artist and a young woman exploring love, fame, and self-exploration.