Alessia Cara: "In The Meantime" (2021)
Suraj's Arts Log: A recent addition to my subway soundtrack
Alessia Cara’s newest album, “In The Meantime” (2021), is such a fun listen.
My favorite songs:
*****
Notes
First off, Alessia Cara seems like a very talented writer. Of course, she co-writes many of her songs, so it’s not completely clear what her specific contributions are to each song. But, her voice as a person and an artist has been cohesive and transparent since her song “Here” came out back in 2015. That song was frank and direct with its message, the lyrics coming out like a stream-of-consciousness working of an oddly mature adolescent mind.
Excuse me if I seem a little unimpressed with this
An anti-social pessimist, but usually I don't mess with this
And I know you mean only the best
And your intentions aren't to bother me
But honestly I'd rather be
Somewhere with my people we can kick it and just listen
To some music with the message
And we'll discuss our big dreams
How we plan to take over the planet
So pardon my manners, I hope you'll understand
That I'll be here
Match that up with lyrics from her song “Voice In My Head,” off her latest album:
There's an evil figurine in my brain
Windin' me up and pullin' all my strings
Like I'm some kind of paper doll lackin' backbone
Made of elasticity, turns out it's just me
Stretchin' myself thin, breakin' my own heart
I'd jump right out if I could, never out of the woods
I'm stuck with me after all
I just wish I could shake the burdens off
Voice in my head, need a muzzle 'cause you're way too loud
I'm tired of walking with my head down, down
Hey, now, now
You wear me out
Same thing. Really clever and elegant writing. Cara’s lyrics sometimes deal with complex issues, but the narratives are super clear and detailed to perfection. Very inspiring. The kind of writing I aspire to do someday. And the songs make you want to move! Wonderful production overall. Highly recommend the album.