Clairo’s ‘Charm’: The perfect blend of Jazz and Soft Rock.

Clairo’s third studio album, ‘Charm’, marks a bold exploration of new sonic landscapes, delving into soft rock and jazz more than ever before, and she executes it flawlessly.

Right from the start, the album showcases stunning instrumentation, drawing on the sounds Clairo has frequently shared on her NTS Radio show and in her personal playlists. Opening with ‘Nomad’ felt particularly fitting—it was a track she debuted during her Sling tour in 2022, and fans had been eagerly awaiting its official release. As the lead-in to Charm, it couldn’t have been a better choice. The album then seamlessly transitions into ‘Sexy To Someone’, the second single that has captivated listeners since its release earlier this year. For many Clairo fans, this track delivers the perfect blend of the elements that defined her previous two records, fulfilling the expectations set for this new chapter in her career.

The album then eases into a softer, more ethereal space with ‘Second Nature’ and ‘Slow Dance’, both of which delve into the contrasting emotions of love—familiarity and uncertainty. The juxtaposition of these two tracks creates a powerful emotional impact when you explore their deeper meanings. A personal highlight comes with ‘Thank You’, where Clairo delivers a witty chorus about anticipating the inevitable end of a relationship and preemptively thanking the other person for their time. Lyrically gripping, it stands out sonically as well, with its stunning piano and drums evoking the sound of her breakout debut album, ‘Immunity’. It feels like the quintessential Clairo track, encapsulating her current sound and artistic growth. ‘Echo’ is another moment on the album that harks back to vintage Clairo, reminiscent of the early days when fans first fell in love with her music. It’s a song that feels equally suited as the perfect soundtrack for a snowy day or a spring morning coffee.

The tracks ‘Terrapin’ and ‘Juna’ stand out as the most captivating of the album, blending an aesthetic that wouldn’t feel out of place in the hands of producers like Madlib or Tyler, The Creator. Their lush instrumentation and carefully crafted samples create a sonic landscape that’s as intricate as it is beautiful. ‘Juna’, in particular, is already making waves beyond traditional listening platforms, gaining traction across TikTok and Instagram Reels, where it’s quickly becoming a go-to soundtrack. The track’s viral success is a testament to its universal appeal and the way it resonates with a wide audience, solidifying its place as a defining moment in the album.

Small details across the album make it a delightful listen, like the loop at the end of 'Second Nature' and the isolated vocals for a split second towards the end of 'Echo'. These elements show the careful consideration Clairo and Leon Michels put into each track.

This album is a clear demonstration of Clairo's creative evolution, with each of her three albums presenting a unique soundscape. Her adaptability continues to impress, making us excited to see where her music will take us next. I firmly believe we’ve all been Charmed by this new Clairo album.

9/10

Clairo’s ‘Charm’ has been added to under the radar’s Elite Picks.