album Review: lizzy mcalpine’s latest release, older

This album encapsulates and explores the feelings that come along with growing “older.”

She opens the album with “The Elevator,” a slow ballad that perfectly sets the tone for the album and smoothly transitions into the following track, “Come Down Soon.”

These two tracks express the fear of change. Lyrics like “Can we stay like this forever?” and “Nothing this good ever lasts this long for me,” allow the listener to feel the anxious attachment McAlpine is feeling.

With McAlpine’s genius and clever lyricism, the listener is able to put themselves in her shoes, creating a more intimate listening experience.

Her lead single and title track for the album, “Older,” is a genuine stab to the heart. It deals with the main theme of growing up and maturing, but also incorporates themes of inner strength and learning to trust.

The way in which she sings, almost in a whisper, makes the songs feel more raw and full of emotion, especially in songs like “Better Than This,” where McAlpine expresses her doubts in whether or not she believes she is a good person. We’ve seen artists like Gracie Abrams use this type of style.

The album ends with “Vortex,” another soft piano ballad similar to her opening track. The buildup and piano towards the end of the song are the perfect way to end the record.

When listening to the final moments of the album, the listener feels like they’re at the ending of a coming-of-age film, with feelings of nostalgia and hope rushing in – hope that, in the words of McAlpine herself, “Someday I’ll be kinder to myself.”

Older has this special relatability to it, which is what truly makes it so special and great. Even as a casual listener, one can easily find a song or lyric throughout the record that feels personal to them.

Lizzy McAlpine begins her tour for Older later this month in San Diego, California. Don’t be afraid to check out this amazing star on tour.