Tate McRae’s third studio album, So Close to What, released on February 21, 2025, marks a pivotal moment in her artistic evolution. Drawing from early 2000s pop aesthetics and contemporary production techniques, McRae refines her emotionally charged songwriting. However, the album teeters between personal introspection and mainstream accessibility, raising questions about its long-term artistic significance.
Themes of Possession and Jealousy
One of the most compelling tracks, Miss Possessive, received praise from The Times for its infectious, retro-inspired production. Lyrically, it explores themes of jealousy and control, offering an unapologetic perspective on possessiveness in relationships. However, this raises an intriguing question about gendered double standards—if the roles were reversed, would the same narrative be deemed problematic? The song’s success highlights McRae’s ability to navigate these themes without alienating her audience, though its implications merit deeper cultural examination.
Emotional Depth vs. Commercial Appeal
Revolving Door is one of the album’s strongest offerings, capturing the cyclical nature of toxic relationships. The track’s layered production effectively conveys emotional turmoil, but a raw, acoustic rendition could further enhance its impact. In contrast, Bloodonmyhands aligns with McRae’s signature style but falls into predictable pop tropes—catchy yet creatively unremarkable. Dear God offers a refreshing thematic shift, grappling with themes of disappointment and faith. Whether McRae is genuinely engaging with spirituality or using it as a metaphor for emotional desperation remains open to interpretation.
Femininity, Sexuality, and Their Contradictions
The album’s treatment of femininity and sexuality is particularly noteworthy. Purple Lace Bra embraces seduction with confidence, reminiscent of Jessie J’s empowering style, while simultaneously critiquing the objectification of women. However, this thematic complexity is undercut by the placement of Sports Car immediately afterward. The latter track, lacking in lyrical substance and emotional resonance, feels generic and contradicts the frustration expressed in Purple Lace Bra about being reduced to a physical presence.
Reflection on Relationships and Self-Worth
Other notable tracks include Signs, which explores the volatility of young relationships while hinting at the unique pressures McRae faces as a celebrity. Like I Do presents an intriguing narrative of rivalry and vindictiveness, though its vocal delivery does not fully convey the weight of its message. An acoustic reinterpretation could enhance its emotional intensity and allow the lyrics to take center stage.
Means I Care drifts into a melancholic yet thought-provoking note, addressing breakups, emotional detachment, and the performative aspects of self-worth in the digital age. It subtly critiques the contemporary impulse to equate blocking someone with empowerment, questioning whether such actions are genuine acts of self-care or socially conditioned responses.
Final Thoughts: Artistic Growth or Playing It Safe?
Ultimately, So Close to What is a well-executed pop album that successfully balances commercial appeal with personal storytelling. However, its reliance on familiar structures prevents it from feeling truly groundbreaking. For younger listeners experiencing these emotions firsthand, the album is likely to resonate deeply. For seasoned pop consumers, however, it may feel like a reiteration of themes and sounds that have been explored more innovatively elsewhere. The question remains: Is McRae refining her artistic voice, or is she playing it safe within the framework of radio-friendly pop?
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