Queer aesthetics shine in the summer’s top albums
From splitting apples to comparing yourself to take-out food (hot-to-go), this summer’s top albums were defined by their eclectic lyrics and queer aesthetics. In no particular order, here are the albums of the summer that are well worth a listen.
“Brat” by Charli XCX
Perhaps nothing demonstrates the success of “Brat” like the fact that the album has made the color chartreuse cool. A continuation of her hyperpop sound, Charli XCX’s music was long familiar to club rats, but “Brat” has introduced her music to younger audiences, especially songs like “Apple” and “365,” which have dominated TikTok.
“The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess” by Chappell Roan
While Chappell Roan released her album “The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess” in September of 2023, it leapt into mainstream culture (read: straight culture) this summer. Roan’s debut album shows her incredible range; from songs like the ballad-esque “Casual” to “Hot To Go!,” an in-your-face pop anthem that will reverberate through your head all week.
“The Great American Bar Scene” by Zach Bryan
A blend of pop, folk and country music, Bryan’s sound is infectious and irresistible. Whereas Charli XCX writes music to lose yourself to in a sweaty nightclub, “The Great American Bar Scene” is laced with nostalgia, longing and sprinkles of optimism. “Pink Skies” (feat. Watchhouse) is my favorite of the album and features lyrics that would also fit right into a Phoebe Bridgers song. Beautiful acoustic guitar and harmonica instrumentation bring a brightness to this album that balances its heavy subject matter at times — and makes it perfect for a late-night walk or a quintessential American bonfire.
“How to Build an Ocean: Instructions” by Bears in Trees
Bears in Trees are an English indie band, mixing a typical english rock sound with horns and piano. The second song of the album, “Things That Look Like Mistakes” is my favorite, thanks to sections of more classic rock interspersed with funky horn melodies.
“Short n’ Sweet” by Sabrina Carpenter
Sabrina Carpenter finally released her third album “Short n’ Sweet” in late August, featuring her summer hits “Espresso” and “Please Please Please.” Carpenter’s album manages to be catchy but not generic. It sounds flirty and summery while still containing relatable and emotionally developed lyrics.
“HIT ME HARD AND SOFT” by Billie Eilish
Billie Eilish lacks a summer aesthetic, but her latest album was played all season. “Birds of a Feather” is the album’s most played song on Spotify. It has a light and summery melody and verses sung with a bright head voice which differs from her usual sound. “LUNCH”’s queer lyrics are set against a fast tempo baseline, making it the song perfect for your next gay pool party or sapphic rendezvous.
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