A stunning display of radical honesty...
12 · 01 · 2026
Courtney Marie Andrews describes ‘Valentine’ as “a record in pursuit of love.” However, she realizes that “love encompasses much more than I initially acknowledged.” Her ninth album is both nuanced and intentional, yet it maintains its honesty and human touch. Centered around complete studio performances, the album prioritizes immediacy over polish. Deliberately imperfect, its rough edges come together to create something quietly cathartic. Andrews’ vocals range from theatrical to self-contained, transitioning from an ethereal head voice to a powerful chest voice, resulting in a well-crafted album.
The opening track, ‘Pendulum Swing’, takes inspiration from Fleetwood Mac while incorporating Andrews’ unique Americana style. She dives into emotional candor with the lyrics, “If I get what I want, gotta let the pendulum swing, can’t be good for too long, let the pendulum swing,” expressing her refusal to view life through rose-tinted glasses.
‘Keeper’ stands out on the album, featuring quivering vocal sighs and country influences layered over a pulsing beat. Here, Andrews conveys her sincere longing while questioning if her lover feels the same way. Another standout is ‘Cons & Clowns’, reminiscent of Kate Bush with its acoustic sound. She creates a safe environment for her lover, acknowledging that love can be embarrassing: “It’s a scary world full of cons & clowns / a lot of bad people who will tear you down / not me, no way / only wanted you to play…” Andrews moves between gentleness and assertiveness, revealing her vulnerability. ‘Magic Touch’ is an unwavering love song with rich lyrics and hymnal melodies.
The album shifts into more assertive tracks like ‘Little Picture Of A Butterfly’. This song begins with clear vocals and slow warped synths before building into a robust instrumental with flutes and organs, symbolizing a metaphorical transformation. ‘Everyone Wants To Feel Like You Do’ critiques the bravado of men and the chaos their selfishness creates; it’s playful, satirical, and defiant. The production on ‘Valentine’ is smooth and understated, allowing the lyrics and vocals to take center stage. ‘Only the best’ exemplifies this balance, with synths complementing Andrews’ raw and emotional voice: “I’m a masochist, I’m a marionette, I’m a mess making moves on you / I am proudly wounded, I’m falling too fast for you / I’m showing my cards, wondering if I’m a fool, but I give only the best with you…”
The concluding track ‘Hangman’ serves as a culmination of the album’s themes, expressing her desires without seeking reciprocity, in a moment of emotional vulnerability: “Don’t wanna live playing hangman / Always asking for vowels / On the edge of death / without the truth spelled out.” The album ends with the poignant line ‘I have loved you from the beginning’, marking her final act of radical honesty.
The beauty of ‘Valentine’ is rooted in Courtney Marie Andrews’ exceptional ability to navigate various vocal textures. Her deep emotional pain resonates through her voice and unfiltered lyrics, lending the album its emotional weight.
8/10
Words: Melvin Boateng
—
Join us on WeAre8, as we delve into global cultural events. Follow Clash Magazine HERE as we joyfully navigate clubs, concerts, interviews, and photo shoots. Experience backstage sneak peeks and insights into our world as the fun and games unfold.
Join the Clash mailing list for the latest music, fashion, and film news.
Sleaford Mods have always conveyed the theme of collapse without relying on spectacle. In "The Demise of Planet X," the apocalypse is presented through the lenses of repetition, fatigue, and
JayO is back with a fresh collaboration with Jordan Adetunji titled 'History'. The London artist begins his journey for 2026 with a powerful new single, one that
A clever individual on the internet has combined two of Liverpool's most notable exports - Esdeekid and The Beatles. The rapper was among the highlights of 2025's
It has been confirmed that Matt Kwasniewski-Kelvin, co-founder of black midi, has passed away. The London musician played a key role in leading the group, alongside Matt.
Paul McCartney has consistently been enthusiastic about performing live. From the exhilarating times of The Beatles in Hamburg, when the band would entertain for eight to ten hours...
She recently accompanied Lewis Capaldi on his 2025 tour in the UK and Ireland.
Courtney Marie Andrews describes 'Valentine' as “a record in pursuit of love.” However, she realizes that love “is much more than I previously acknowledged.” This marks her ninth album.