On May 23, Claire Cottrill, the indie singer/songwriter better known as Clairo, made an album announcement, thrilling her long-starved fans. Her third album, titled “Charm,” was to be released on July 12, nearly three years after her last album, “Sling.”
Clairo’s music has been at the heart of my relationship with my best friend Jayden since high school, so we were beyond delighted by the announcement. We first saw her perform in March 2022, during the “Sling” tour, and her voice, stage presence and darling set dazzled us completely.
Our love for Clairo came full circle during the summer of 2023, when we camped for nine hours to see her perform at Re:SET alongside Boygenuis, Dijon and Bartees Strange. After a spectacular show, we were left yearning for more music.
“Immunity,” Clairo’s first album, is one that I’ll never tire of, but I was hungry for something akin to the revelatory, soulful softness of “Sling.” I had no doubts that “Charm” would be wonderful, but I had a vision I hoped it would align with.
On July 11 at 11 p.m. (shout-out time zone difference), I connected to my speaker, snuggled into a cozy spot in my warmly-lit room and listened to “Charm” all the way through. It’s safe to say that Miss Cottrill far surpassed the hopeful vision I had. Let’s take a look at each track:
“Nomad”
The first track on the album was one I’d heard on the “Sling” tour. I adored the poetic, lilting lyrics when I heard it live, and finally having the option to give it a listen whenever I please is a genuine treat. Listening to the recorded track gave me the chance to notice the lovely overlay of bass, cello and guitar. Coupled with soft vocals, “Nomad” is a masterpiece.
This track was the first single released from “Charm,” and I will forever cherish it for announcing a new era of Clairo. My favorite part of this airy tune is the flute solo, which is so pleasant that when it gets stuck in my head, I don’t even mind.
One of my absolute favorites and an anytime listen. Laced with samples of Clairo’s laughter and clarinet solos, this song is incredibly fun and sweet.
With beautifully gutting lyrics, “Slow Dance” is a hazy, slow-building track that speaks on the complications that come with dating as a young adult. I could get lost in the lush story this song tells.
I have been reaching for this song more and more recently. The jaunty tempo and piano blends wonderfully with what Clairo describes as “cheeky” lyrics.
“Terrapin”
“Terrapin” immediately grabbed my attention due to the fact that it’s quite unlike any Clairo song from “Immunity” or “Sling.” Yummy piano solos and intimate lyrics combine to form a song I can listen to again and again and again.
“Juna”
This track is a beautiful, feminine, addictive little thing. It reflects the shiny, twinkly feeling of being in a new relationship. The overlapping vocals just beg you to sing along, and as soon as you start, good luck keeping a smile off of your face.
“Add Up My Love” is a cheerful-sounding song with incredible instrumentals and the complex, questioning lyrics add a layer of intensity to the track. It seems to be a moment of confrontation amidst the story “Charm” tells.
“Echo”
About a love that “goes nowhere,” “Echo” has a distinct sound and cleverly placed breaks. This song is gently entrancing and pleasantly surprised me upon my first listen.
After reading that this track was inspired by “Seabird” by the Alessi Brothers, my appreciation for it grew tenfold. “Glory of the Snow” is reminiscent of the new beginnings and sweetness that spring brings.
“Pier 4”
Oh, “Pier 4.” This one is very special to me — my favorite track without a doubt. Its lovely soft vocals, devastating lyrics and initially acoustic instrumentals are reminiscent of my beloved “Sling.” I’m quite fond of the booming organ in this track, as it really seems to drive the emotion of the song into the listener.
Though each song brings its own story and flavor to the table, “Charm” as a whole is full of whimsy, warmth and spirit.
It’s clear that Clairo took her time being intentional with each track, and I, as a longtime fan, was thrilled with the album. It was my summer anthem, as was the case for many.
If you feel inclined to listen to Clairo now, you can find most of her discography on Spotify, and a select few singles on Bandcamp.
On Oct. 16, Editor-in-Chief Maddie Kasper and I will trek to Chicago for the “Charm” Tour. Will she charm us? Stay tuned for what is likely to be another adoring review of the concert experience.
O’Brien can be reached at [email protected].
