Clairo - Charm Review
Charm weaves '70s-inspired grooves with soulful sophistication, marking Clairo's most cohesive and optimistic work to date.
Claire Cottrill, better known as Clairo, returns with her third album Charm, continuing her tradition of collaborating with acclaimed producers. Following the footsteps of Rostam Batmanglij on Immunity and the polarising Jack Antonoff on Sling, Clairo's latest venture brings her together with the soulful Leon Michels of El Michaels Affair. The result is an album that builds on the warm-hearted, '70s-tinged singer-songwriter style of her sophomore effort but adds a layer of soulful sophistication and a refreshing optimism.
"Charm" is an anthology of '70s-inspired grooves, seamlessly transitioning between jazz, psychedelic folk, and soul. The first single “Sexy To Somebody” is a track that, despite its playful lyrics, showcases Clairo's growth. While the lyrics might seem a bit falsely whimsical for one of indie’s biggest heartthrob, the music tells a different story. The track is reminiscent of her second album, featuring whimpering guitars and a pronounced groove, with an emphasis on the bass that sets a more upbeat and positive tone compared to the introspective Sling.
The album is a testament to Clairo's ability to imbue her music with emotive, understated beauty. On ‘Slow Dance’ the simplicity of the piano arrangement allows her euphonious vocals to shine. Clairo has developed a profound understanding of her vocal strengths, using subtle intimacies and harmonies to enhance her glowing arrangements. The track's chorus builds beautifully with sun-kissed instrumentation, including sweet flutes and watery guitars that create an enchanting backdrop.
Another standout track, ‘Thank You’ is a blissfully warm composition with gorgeous flutes, crunchy drums, and intricate arrangements. Here, Clairo appears at her most optimistic, displaying a wisdom that reflects her experiences in a way that feels more mature and thoughtful than her previous releases. This sense of understanding and reflection permeates the album, contrasting with the immediate lyrical impact of her earlier hits.
While Charm might not break new ground in the way Clairo's transition from her debut EP to Immunity did, it finds her confidently exploring a quiet, psychedelic, soulful sound. This album is a celebration of Clairo knowing her strengths and embracing them fully. It may not have the indie edge of "Sofia" or the kitsch allure of "Pretty Girl" but Charm is where Clairo fully realises her artistic vision.
Charm stands out as Clairo's most cohesive and realised work to date. The consistency across the tracks and the growth in songwriting are palpable. Clairo is more reflective and optimistic, a departure from the immediate nature of her earlier lyrics. Leon Michels' production brings out the best in her, resulting in a stunningly produced album with hidden details that reward multiple listens.
Charm is a soulful evolution, a record that speaks to Clairo's growth as an artist. It's a must-listen for those who appreciate the beauty of finely crafted music.
