A pop statement infused with Broadway confidence, emotional honesty, and sharp wit...
The current landscape of pop music is thriving with bold, genre-defying voices creating space with memorable hooks and a fearless attitude. This year has witnessed performances from artists like Sabrina Carpenter, Chappell Roan, Olivia Rodrigo, and Billie Eilish — each contributing their distinct style of confessional pop and raw emotion to an audience eager for authenticity and spectacle. Now, with her new album ‘Bite Me’, Reneé Rapp steps boldly into this arena, merging vulnerability with defiance in a pop declaration characterized by her Broadway-honed assurance, emotional openness, and the incisive wit that makes her stand out in a saturated market.
Opening the album with a powerful statement, the lead single ‘Leave Me Alone’ sets the stage for an unapologetic dive into themes of boundaries and self-empowerment. Fueled by punchy production and Rapp’s commanding voice, the track blends sharp lyricism with a gritty pop-rock vibe that captures the spirit of Joan Jett and Kesha engaged in a rebellious farewell. It’s a bold call for respect and space, reflecting the fatigue of emotional overwhelm — from industry tensions to challenging relationships — all while steadfastly asserting herself. The opening lines, “I’m a real bad girl but a real good kisser,” transition into the mantra-like chorus, “leave me alone, bitch, I wanna have fun,” challenging ex-partners and industry figures, as well as fans, to try and silence her. This candid, playful rebellion perfectly sets the stage for the rest of the album, encouraging listeners to embrace the chaotic journey of living authentically.
Occupying the space where post-breakup heartache intersects with self-discovery, ‘Sometimes’ stands out as one of the album's most poignant moments. The song takes listeners through an intimate confession of loving someone who has already moved on, revealing the desperation and confusion of such feelings. Its simple, personal production puts Rapp’s voice front and center, with every note heavy with longing and weariness; the heartbreak is felt as much as it is heard. “It’s eating me alive just thinking ’bout the nights you’re by her side / So if you’re gonna let me go, let me go,” she sings in the second verse. “Cause getting over you’s gonna take a toll / Please don’t make it worse, I need to know.”
In contrast, ‘Kiss It Kiss It’ and ‘You’d Like That Wouldn’t You’ highlight two facets of Rapp’s striking versatility, merging playful, provocative energy with punk-infused frustration. The former exudes a flirty vibe reminiscent of Sabrina Carpenter, driven by infectious beats and a gritty guitar riff that builds to a glittery peak, where Rapp balances lust and humor with cheeky boldness: “I told her I’m from Carolina / I know a thing or two about rodeo / I think we almost made a baby / I mean, we can’t, but we came so close.” On the other hand, ‘You’d Like That Wouldn’t You’ channels an early-2000s punk essence, combining moody rock guitars and explosive vocals as Rapp paints vivid pictures of an ex, only to shatter the illusion with raw honesty: “The thought of gettin’ back together makes me wanna die alone.” Collectively, these tracks present a cathartic mix of sharp humor, deep emotion, and the complex chaos of desire and healing.
Overall, ‘Bite Me’ is anything but an album for quiet contemplation. It thrives on raw truth — even when that truth is messy, complicated, and full of contradictions. Moving away from the intimate vulnerability of ‘Snow Angel’, Rapp embraces a more audacious pop-star identity, showcasing her Broadway-trained vocals with assured style. The result is an engaging combination of theatrical flair and contemporary pop that feels fresh and unapologetically genuine, inviting listeners to immerse themselves in the tumult of growing pains, heartbreak, and self-discovery, all delivered with Rapp’s iconic sharp wit and undeniable charm.
7/10
Words: Shannon Garner
—
Join us on WeAre8, as we delve into global cultural occurrences. Follow Clash Magazine HERE as we happily navigate through clubs, concerts, interviews, and photo shoots. Get backstage insights and a glimpse into our world as the fun unfolds.
Sign up for the Clash mailing list for the latest updates on music, fashion, and film news.
The Armed's latest album is presented in all capital letters for a variety of reasons. ‘THE FUTURE IS HERE AND EVERYTHING NEEDS TO BE DESTROYED’ is a beautifully
Wisp is staying occupied. Connected via Zoom with Clash, she's relishing a rare day off in London as she prepares for the release of her debut album 'If Not.'
Paris-based artist Jaymie Silk has released his new EP 'More Love, Less War' today through HE.SHE.THEY. This project is a courageous and sincere expression that embodies the spirit of radical
The Streets have released a new song titled 'Brave St Andrew'. The project, led by Mike Skinner, performed at London's Southbank Centre earlier this year, having been specially selected to
Saweetie has released her latest EP titled 'Hella Pressure.' The American pioneer recently made waves online with the release of her new single 'Superstars' - a remarkable
Burial has unveiled two new tracks titled 'Comafields' and 'Imaginary Festival'. The mysterious producer partnered with XL Recordings last year, presenting his captivating,
The current music scene is filled with bold, genre-defying artists who are making their mark with memorable hooks and a confident demeanor. Just this year,