Dynamic, elaborate and fun

Carly Rae Jepsen is one of the most underrated pop artists in the industry and her sixth studio album The Loneliest Time was one of the most anticipated albums of the 2022. She is highly favored among critics and beloved among dedicated pop music fans yet it is uncommon to hear her on the radio since her early 2010s hits. Jepsen has a reputation of creating perfect pop music and this album further proves that statement. It is exactly what one would expect from Jepsen with a mix of influences ranging from the ‘70s funk and disco, to ‘80s synth pop and the ‘90s pop scene. 

The opening track “Surrender My Heart” reminisces the songs that made Jepsen a mainstream artist. It is as if the song came out around that same time period of the early 2010s. 

“Joshua Tree” contains a moody electric guitar yet the song is still groovy and funky. The song feels as if it blends two different songs together yet still manage transition into each other tastefully. The verses feel like a classic pop song but the chorus transitions into something funkier. It’s a modern take on funk while mixing it with pop. The instrumental as a whole is incredibly astonishing and a really interesting listen. 

“Far Away”  is where the ‘90s pop influences can be heard. The song is reminiscent of tracks done by the Spice Girls and so many more. Jepsen may possibly be the artist that popularizes ‘90s pop just as artists like Dua Lipa and The Weeknd did for 80s synth pop. The track itself is a bit more chill while still maintaining the grooviness of the album.

“Western Wind” is a really special track. The 90s-inspired instrumental sounds like a trip hop song coming from Björk. The electric guitar solos that appear throughout the album allow cohesiveness while also being able to fit the vibe each song creates. The amount of thought that went into the production and composition of this album is extremely impressive. 

“Bad Thing Twice” is a classic 80s synth pop inspired track. The heavy bass in the mix is extremely 80s and really solidifies the influences. The synth lead supporting the instrumental of the verses is special as well in recreating the 80s sound. 

“Go Find Yourself or Whatever” is the most stripped back and emotional song on the album. The vibe is completely different from the rest of the songs but still flows well with the album. The lyrics and vocal tone of Jepsen are bound to create tears. “Keep Away – Bonus Track” is another emotional track but has metro pop vibes that fit the album a bit better. Nonetheless, these songs create a fantastic ending to the album and continues to prove that Jepsen is an incredible pop artist.