TOURING | Sabrina Carpenter 'EVOLution' Album Review
There is just no holding this young woman back. Despite Disney roots, Sabrina Carpenter has proven herself to be a true talent, and one that will undoubtedly surpass her Disney alumni in the music industry in the years to come. With incredible vocal control and an enigmatic stage presence, Carpenter’s setting a new standard for the franchise’s upcoming starlets, and gaining a legion of fans in the process.
Sabrina Carpenter’s 2015 album ‘Eyes Wide Open’ may not have caught the attention of primetime disc jockeys following its release, but if you were lucky enough to catch Miss Carpenter’s music videos on the Disney Channel, or see her acoustic performances pop up on your social network feed, you were very lucky indeed.
Sunny pop hit ‘Can’t Blame a Girl For Trying’ had girls smiling and shrugging their shoulders whimsically while lamenting the stupid things they’ve done “when it comes to love”.
‘The Middle of Starting Over’ was another smart single release beginning with a dramatic metaphor that reflected the journey of finding oneself following a breakup, with a darn catchy tune to boot.
And then there was ‘Darling I’m a Mess’, which ultimately took it down a notch, delving into summertime seaside acoustics, with the ukulele pleasantly and emotively complemented by gentle vocals and gorgeous harmonies.
But in 2016, Sabrina Carpenter returned to our radios with full star potential.
Her latest album ‘EVOLution’ manages to allure new fans, whilst careful not to alienate the loyal Disney fans she’s accrued over the years. Her newly developed sound is without a doubt edgier than before, with the lyrics delving into ever-so slightly more mature themes; it’s less bubblegum pop and more mainstream chart-topper appeal this time around.
First single ‘On Purpose’ begins with slow, heavy piano chords and the hyperbolic lyrics “Your eyes crashing into my eyes / was I accidentally falling in love?” depicting drama and apprehension - absolutely relatable to her age appropriate listeners.
As the lyrics continue, purposeful enjambment propels the listener into the upbeat sing-along-worthy chorus, making this the obvious leading single release from 2016 album. To top it off, the music video is delightfully captured with a dated filter against a scenic London backdrop, adding a little class to her already respectable new image and branding.
‘Feels Like Loneliness’ evokes images of an underground club, reminiscent of the showtune classic ‘Hernando’s Hideaway’ in its showcasing of breathy vocals, plucked bass and finger snaps to lead the beat. Yet, in true pop style, Carpenter culminates the old with a modern twist, its chorus creeping carefully into the R&B genre instead.
However, it is ‘Thumbs’ that is arguably the standout track on this album, despite its unlikely title. What’s clever about this song is that is begins with a riddle that listeners can’t help but try to solve, and it’s so quick that we feel compelled to play the song on repeat as a result. Clever thinking, Carpenter.
It’s the near-novelty riddle leaves listeners wondering where Miss Carpenter is leading them, and because of its suspenseful orchestral beginning, accompanying finger snaps and unusual melody, the listener has no choice but to stay tuned to see what more the unique song has to offer.
Though fun and playful, the ‘Thumbs’ lyrics still manage to draw attention to the unbalanced, familiar lifestyle lived by the majority:
‘Somewhere in the world, they think they're working for themselves / They get up everyday to go to work for someone else / And somebody works for them and, so, they think they got it made / But they're all just working to get paid the very same’
It is upon listening that we soon realise the track’s title hints towards multiple meanings – one being society’s dependence upon handheld technology. Brilliant work, Sabrina. A worthy message indeed.
With a host of other potential hits on the album (including 'Mirage' which is deserving of an uptempo dance remix given its club potential), Carpenter is a performer to watch out for in the coming year, with 'EVOLution' well worth a listen or two... three... four... heck, just keep this baby on repeat.
Fangirling in the U.K. or Ireland? Sabrina is touring with The Vamps in May 2017! Tickets available HERE.
