Last year, I rediscovered my love for singer-songwriter Tate McRae, after watching her perform during the NHL All Star game. From that moment on, I spent the rest of 2024 with “THINK LATER” on repeat. I absolutely fell in love with its energy and deep heartfelt lyrics.
So naturally, when the singer announced her third studio album “So Close to What”, I was bouncing with excitement.
Before the initial release, McRae teased fans with three singles- “It’s ok I’m ok”, “2 Hands” and “Sports Car”- all of which perfectly set the tone for the rest of the project. They showed up on my Spotify wrapped at the end of last year because I streamed them so much!
While the Canadian-born singer is best known for her emotionally raw ballads and bedroom-pop aesthetic, these singles hinted towards a shift to a more traditional pop sound, showing the influence of McRae’s infamous alter ego, Tatiana.
The album kicks off with “Miss Possessive”, an immediate standout featuring an opening line from actress Sydney Sweeney.
“Get your hands off my man!”
The seductive delivery paired with a punchy beat makes the perfect opening track, setting the vibes of the album with themes of heartbreak, self-reflection, and obsession.
A big highlight of the album is “Revolving Door”, which shines not only in its production, but also in the stunning visuals the music video shows. It made me in awe. The reversed and replayed dance sequences perfectly mirrored the song’s message of being stuck in a repeating cycle with an ex-lover.
“I still think bout’ that night out in Boston”
During the bridge, she recalls a specific memory from her past, connecting this album to her previous one.
My favorite track from the album is “Purple Lace Bra.”
Despite the upbeat melody, the song’s meaning cuts deep. McRae explores the feelings of being desired for your body rather than for who you truly are. The breathless, almost frantic delivery of the chorus is captivating, showing her wide vocal range while adding an emotional weight to the lyrics.
The album also features two collaborators, each bringing a unique dynamic to the album.
“bloodonmyhands” with Flo Milli, is easily my favorite of the two. Flo’s verse blends seamlessly with McRae’s, adding a confident, vengeful energy to the track. Hopefully they collaborate again in the future.
The second feature, “I know love” with the Kid LAROI, is softer and more intimate moment between the two, who are currently dating. Throughout the track, they trace the evolution of their relationship- from not liking each other, to falling in love.
“Yeah, it’s only the beginning, but it’s happening quick.”
Fans went absolutely crazy for this collab, begging the two to release something together since they started dating last year.
After the initial release of the album, fans noticed subtle differences between it and an early leaked version, as last-minute changes were made. Whether these changes were because of the leak or not, I love the product she produced.
Following the album drop, the singer surprised fans with a bonus track “Siren Sounds.” This song is an anthem for those struggling with inner turmoil. Its haunting production and echoing vocals make it a perfect closer, tying together all of the album’s themes.
Since its release two weeks ago, I’ve already streamed “So Close to What” over 35 times (according to my Apple Music Replay). This album makes you want to dance, cry and scream the lyrics all at the same time.
Tate McRae took a risk by stepping outside her usual sound, and I think it paid off. I can’t wait to see this album performed live at the Miss Possessive Tour in October.
My final rating of this album is 10/10 greenlights.
Stream the album here:
