(Image via Atwood Magazine)
Sports Editor: Aidan Danforth
Email: adanforth@umassd.edu
Uh, hello? How has it already been a year? So Close To What, the album that put pop girly Tate McRae on the map as a mainstream pop artist, is already a year old. From the announcement of “It’s ok, I’m ok,” “2 hands,” “Sports car,” the album itself, “Just Keeping Watching,” and the deluxe edition, no other artist could compete with the treasure trove of music Tate was bringing out.
It’s hard to put into words how much So Close To What means to huge Tate fans like myself. It is literally the perfect album. Each track has its individual feel and meaning along with three music videos and the most creative album art ever made.
But instead of talking about the album itself, I’m going to let these tracks speak for themselves and take you on a journey of a lifelong Tate fan’s experience with each song a full year after their release.
“It’s ok, I’m ok”: As soon as I went on Youtube and watched the music video, I knew we’d be in for a treat. This song is a great combination of what makes Tate amazing with her energetic pop feel and her impressive skills as a dancer that will keep your eyes glued to the screen.
“2 hands”: The second single, and although not as incredible, you gotta love the car theme with that same catchy pop feel. The dancing is also amazing, and that racer outfit is so iconic. A great song about needing tactile experiences in relationships.
“Sports Car”: With the third single being by far the best, this is where the hype really began. Tate’s voice in this song is just amazing and the lyrics fit so well with its themes of excitement and attraction. And how does Tate manage to fit twelve outfits in one music video? Easily the best music video Tate has ever made.
“Revolving Door”: The album’s headliner that certainly did not disappoint. The combination of emotional and energetic themes and lyrics, the white outfits, and the dancing. I’ll admit that I’ve tried recreating the dance and have failed horribly. It’s such a memorable song that every time I walk through any kind of revolving door, this is playing in my head.
“Miss Possessive”: The first song on the setlist, and it helps set the scene. The background vocals at the beginning and between each verse add well to the meaning about growing up and Tate turning 21. A great blend of energy and vulnerability that gives you a sneak peek into the rest of the album, which is what a good starter track should do.
“Bloodonmyhands”: A collaboration song that did not disappoint. “I got some blood on my hands” being uttered over and over again was so well done and acts as the perfect bridge. I don’t know much about Flo Milli, but her addition with her fast paced lyrics sync perfectly with Tate’s vocals.
“Dear God”: There’s obviously themes of energy, vulnerability, and emotion throughout the whole album, which this track in particular excels at. From the moment she says “Dear God,” the track just speeds up and takes us on an adventure of Tate trying to remove a past relationship from her mind while desperately pleading with God to help her.
“Purple lace bra”: My favorite Tate song ever! It has energy, emotion, and lyrics that may appear to just be dirty but are actually very deep. It explains the struggle of overcoming how the media sees female pop artists as desperate to break loose and be seen as something else. A very vulnerable and well written song that is good all the way through, especially at the part where she says, “Would you hear more if I whispered in your ear. Made all my inner thoughts sound like, Ah ah.””
“Signs”: This song doesn’t try to do anything groundbreaking. It’s just another great energetic song with a catchy beat and background lyrics that remind me of “Sports car.” Not much more to talk about since it’s a stereotypical pop song.
“I know love”: This song didn’t age well. Despite Tate and Loroi breaking up and the deluxe basically dissing him, this is still a fun track that is all about finding and celebrating love. It’s also a good mix of the pop and rap genres that create a good feel if you ignore the context behind it.
“Like I do”: Oh, the intro of this one is simply amazing. I used to skip it, but I’ve grown to love it due to its unique feel of Tate’s softer voice with the vulnerable lyrics. And the part where she speaks only adds to that struggle of handling someone who claims to know you.
“No I’m not in love”: Every track on this album is great, but this is probably my least favorite. It’s the one that stands out the least. Although I do really like the background vocals and meaning that explains the complexity behind loving someone and trying to deny those feelings.
“Means I care”: Another track with an unforgettable intro that doesn’t get talked about enough. This track is more on the slow side, with an amazing clapping beat that plays as Tate sings about emotional expression. It is probably the most underrated song on So Close To What.
“Greenlight”: With memorable lyrics and a combination of emotion and energy, it’s all there. “Greenlight” is a deep track about wanting to get in a new relationship while struggling with past feelings. A relatable and catchy song that will easily grab your attention. If you want to hear more about this song from Tate herself, I recommend checking out this video where she analyzes and discusses the lyrics. (Tate McRae – Inside the Making of Greenlight (Amex Story of my Song))
“Nostaglia”: I nearly cried when I first heard the amazing melody. Most of this album features Tatiana, her alter ago, but here it’s just Tate. A song about time going by and those regrets we have. The lyrics are so powerful, Tate’s voice is magical, and the background instrumentals only add to its feeling.