Tate McRae has once again captured the hearts of her fans with her latest, sophomore, album, “So Close to What.” This collection of songs showcases her growth as an artist and her ability to convey deep emotions through her music. This album differs from her previous as she employs much more vocal layering throughout these songs.
This album takes listeners on an emotional rollercoaster, weaving together love, heartbreak, and self-discovery themes.
I wanted to take a deep look into the first 7 tracks of the album, which are also my favorite songs on the album.
The Album begins with the song “Miss Possessive,” which kicks off the album with a band delving into the complexities of a controlling relationship. The song’s first line is said by famous actress Sydney Sweeney, “No, seriously, get your hands off my man.” Following this, McRae’s vocals and poignant lyrics paint a picture of the struggles and emotional turmoil involved in such a dynamic.
Following this song is the track “2 Hands” which is hauntingly beautiful. Although it was released before the rest of the album, it remains a popular song on social media. The delicate balance between vulnerability and strength is evident in every note, making it a standout piece in the album.
“Revolving Door” takes us on a journey through the cynical nature of relationships. The repetitive yet catchy melody mirrors the endless emotion loop that comes with complicated romance. This song is also increasingly popular as a small portion of the song was leaked on TikTok. This has led to many fans anticipating the release of this unknown song. Junior Tommy Hartnet says his “favorite song is Revolving door.”
“Bloodonmyhands” This song features the rapper Flo Milli, which includes an aspect to Tate McRae’s music that has yet to be seen in her music before. This is paired with her emotive delivery which makes the song relatable while Tate addresses the guilt and responsibility one feels in the aftermath of a broken relationship.
Shifting from this is a heartfelt plea, “Dear God.” The introspective lyrics and soulful melody shift from the previous upbeat fun of that Flo Milli brought to the previous track.
As sophomore Lucy Eagleson explains her “favorite song is ‘Purple Lace Bra.’ It is monumental and feels as though I am ascending into heaven.”
This next song “Purple Lace Bra” offers a glimpse into the more ultimate and vulnerable side of McRae. In a podcast interview, Tate McRae explains how this song is a depiction of the difficult relationship artists have with the media as a whole. While intertwining these themes, the song’s delicate instrumentation and honest lyrics create a sense of closeness and authenticity.
Following this, “Sports Car” is a metaphorical ride through the highs and lows of love. The fast-paced rhythm and energetic delivery capture the excitement and unpredictability of romantic relationships. Although this song has a strong message, it has not been as well received due to the differing styles used in this song. In this song, McRae whispers during the chorus, which sophomore Lucy Eagleson says, “it makes me uncomfortable when [Tate] whispers in my ear.”
McRae’s album masterfully blends raw emotion with diverse musical styles, creating a compelling listening experience. The first seven tracks showcase her ability to navigate themes of love, loss, and self-reflection, each song offering a unique perspective. McRae continues to push artistic boundaries as she includes rap, whispering, and vocal layering throughout the album. As the album unfolds beyond these tracks, it’s clear that her storytelling and musical evolution keep fans eagerly listening, interpreting, and connecting with every note.
