Clairo Explores the Intricacies of Romance in New Album, ‘Charm’

Due to 2020’s lockdown restrictions, people dove headfirst into their screens, causing social media apps like TikTok to become essential pillars of our culture. Clairo (whose real name is Clairo Cottril) and her soft electric sound birthed a wave of online successes like “Flaming Hot Cheetos,” “4EVER,” and the queer anthem “Sofia.”

“Sofia,” a song about crushing on women, quickly became her biggest hit. Although catchy and even heartwrenching, “Sofia” put Cottril in a box with its simplistic, to-the-point lyrics. Clairo was the quintessential bedroom pop artist, so when the singer released Sling in 2021, some fans were blindsided by the record’s quieter and folkier sound. Many were quick to turn on her, but others saw something more valuable. Sling was delicate, intricate, and purposeful. Audiences saw Clairo as a true artist rather than a figurehead for cultural trends.

Nearly three years after the release of Sling, Cottril has returned with Charm. Fans wondered if Cottril would adhere to complaints and bring back the synth-pop she became known for. Others wanted more of Sling’s tenderness, the subtle yet vibrant lyricism and production that garnered respect and earned her a place at a table beyond the TikTok trending page. 

Sling was a deliberate outlook on motherhood, aging, and isolation, pressuring thoughts Cottril mulled over in the depths of the New York woods. Three years later, Charm feels just as thorough, tackling love and, more importantly, romance. In the lead single, “Sexy to Someone,” she talks about craving desire—wanting to be sexy to someone. The rest of Charm follows suit, as Cottril grapples with dependency vs. independence.

For Cottril, it’s not about broad statements or hyper-specific detail, but smaller moments that speak volumes. Her lyricism is simple yet poetic. She turns the butterflies, the yearning, and the immeasurable feelings into words that feel authentic. It’s clear on tracks like “Terrapin” and “Echo” that Cottril is willing to sacrifice lyrical detail for production feats. Many songs feel like a live jazz concert, where each instrument is given a chance to shine. In return, the main event, Clairo, lyrically and vocally, plays the second chair for her band. Fortunately, Leon Michel’s production is equally as beautiful; still, I felt my itch for Cottril herself was not completely scratched.

From lively piano riffs to swoon-worthy flute runs, each track has a treasure trove of funky sounds to uncover. As I listened, I envisioned each detail intricately strung together by Cottril and Michels. They utilize live band recordings, which create a unique sound begging to be heard in real life.

Tracks like “Add Up My Love” and “Slow Dancing” are entrancing auditory experiences, while the siren sound on “Echo” became irritatingly ensnaring. At times, the production feels muffled, lacking the crisp sounds previous producer Jack Antonoff brought to Sling. This is just a small critique, as, for the most part, I got pleasantly lost in a garden of instruments. Charm sounds like a walk through a park on a summer’s day—exactly how the best romances should feel.

Similar to her past records, Charm is extremely cohesive. This is a summary jazz-infused album, which may only be for some. While not perfect, Charm is her best record yet and the closest she’s come to mastering a mix of groovy instrumentals and poignant lyricism. R&B artist Snoh Aalegra posted a line from the song “Thank You” on Instagram—one I find truly captures the essence of the project: “How you opened my doors and left them wide open.”

Charm is Cottril’s most heartfelt, raw, and prettiest record. It’s not telling us how, why, or whether to love, but instead paints a beautiful picture of what happens when we open the door.

Charm is available on music streaming platforms.