Singer and dancer Tate McRae released her third studio album, “So Close To What,” on Feb. 21, exploriing themes of life, love, and self-discovery.
“The album is pretty great,” said OH junior Hassan Lawal. “[I think] ‘2 Hands’ and ‘Sports Car’ give a fun car ride type of music to listen to,” he added.
Canadian Pop artist McRae is at the peak of her music career and has been widely adjudged as a Pop Princess since her rise to stardom. Her music is great for late-night car rides, house parties, and studying. “2 Hands,” “Sports Car,” and “It’s ok, I’m ok” are all the big three tracks from the album as fans have said these songs are the most catchy and most eye-catching tracks from the album.
“I like her style of music. It gives off a 2000’s vibe and overall the best album from her,” said OH sophomore JuanDiego Muonz.
“So Close To What” shows a more mature and grown-up style than her previous albums and songs. It brings back a stronger 2000-inspired vibe in the album; it gives listeners early 2000s pop beats, and it leans well into classic pop and R&B music. The music videos she showcased on YouTube also fit this energy.
Since Feb. 21, McRae has sold 360,200 units and has received her first No. 1 album on the Billboard 200 in less than 2 weeks of its release. This is a huge milestone for her and she has been conquering the pop music industry.
“Overall I give the album an 8.5/10 irrespective of some of the songs at the end not being as slow-paced,” said Lawal.
The album was pretty great at the start, but it started to sound a little dull towards the end. “So Close To What” would’ve been better if there had been more slow songs with emotional lyrics. The slower songs stood out more in the album.
Many fans are excited for her upcoming tour “Miss Possesive Tour,” which starts its showcase on Jun. 22 in Nottingham, UK. She will have three tour dates in the UK and 10 in the US, on Oct. 21 her tour will finally come to a pit stop in the Windy City.
Overall, “So Close To What” really shows us the beauty of balancing love, partying, and the highs and downs of relationships through her music. McRae has improved so much as an artist since her first-ever album release “I Used To Think I Could Fly.” Her style of writing has grown even more substantial, it gives the audience catchy, confident, and powerful lyrics.
Will she take the Pop Queen crown from Spears, and will it be soon? Only time will tell.
My name is Brandyn Hudson, I am a senior at Oswego High School. I am the Co-Editior-In-Chief of 42fifty, this also my second year, and I love it! I am involved with Lacrosse, HIKE, Bionic, TALK, Student council and numerous honor societies here at Oswego. Looking forward to do great work this year! To reach me you can contact me by emailing 42fifity@sd308.org and putting my name on the subject line.
