Pop music has long been associated with fun, light-hearted tunes that bring comfort and joy to listeners. However, in recent years, the genre’s popularity seemed to wane, especially as dance-pop faded from the mainstream. But Tate McRae, a 21-year-old Canadian singer, might just be bringing the genre back to life with her latest album, So Close to What.
The rising star’s new album captures the essence of pop’s fun and risqué nature, offering a blend of catchy dance-pop melodies that reflect her experiences growing up. In a time when many listeners are nostalgic for the late 2000s and 2010s, So Close to What serves as a sweet escape, offering a musical journey back to those years.
Although McRae’s album maintains its own distinct identity, it draws clear influences from the dance-pop hits of past decades. Songs like Dear God, Sports Car, and Miss Possessive bring to mind the music of Britney Spears and The Pussycat Dolls—two artists McRae admires. These tracks capture the same edginess and sassy energy, making them perfect for a night on the dance floor.
This dance-pop direction suits McRae well, showcasing her strength as an artist. She excels with upbeat tempos, and tracks like Sports Car, It’s OK I’m OK, and 2 Hands were wisely chosen as singles. Their music videos, featuring energetic choreography, only enhance the tracks’ appeal.
Despite the album’s upbeat energy, McRae doesn’t forget her emotional roots. The emotional depth of You Broke Me First can be found in songs like Means I Care and Siren Sounds, which could also make strong singles.
However, So Close to What lacks significant depth. While some tracks are fun to dance to, most of the album doesn’t offer much in terms of showcasing McRae’s growth as a pop artist. Many of the songs feel formulaic, with hooks and melodies that, while catchy, don’t leave a lasting artistic impression. Instead, they place her firmly within the realm of mainstream pop.
There is potential for McRae to evolve, as this is only her third studio album. Many pop stars reach their artistic peak later in their careers, with their fourth or fifth album often being the breakthrough moment. For McRae, the next step might be to explore a musical identity outside of Ryan Tedder’s production. While Tedder’s contributions certainly elevate the album, working with producers like Max Martin, Shellback, and Ester Dean could further broaden her sound and help her unlock new creative potential.
With time, McRae may well emerge as the pop icon of this generation. But for now, So Close to What shows her potential and hints at even greater things to come.
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