ALBUM NOTESListening guide: Frankie Cosmos's Close It Quietly
Close It Quietly- Album Overview
Frankie Cosmos's "Close It Quietly," released on March 19, 2021, via her own label, demonstrates the artist's continued evolution in the indie pop genre. The album features a collection of 10 tracks that blend lo-fi aesthetics with introspective lyrics, showcasing a more mature sound compared to her earlier works. The recording process took place during the pandemic, a challenging time that deeply influenced the themes of isolation and introspection found throughout the album. Collaborators include longtime band members and co-producers, who helped cultivate the signature Frankie Cosmos sound—characterized by jangly guitars, soft melodies, and candid lyricism.
The singles "One Way" and "Fool," released prior to the album, set the tone with their catchy hooks and relatable themes. "Close It Quietly" has been praised for its vulnerability, reflecting on personal experiences and relationships with an honesty that resonates deeply with listeners. The album's production is intentionally low-key, allowing the lyrical content to shine through, which aligns with the ethos of the indie music scene. It encapsulates the essence of navigating emotional landscapes while maintaining a sense of hope, making it a significant entry in Frankie Cosmos's discography and the indie pop landscape of the early 2020s.
Review
"Close It Quietly" represents a significant artistic leap for Frankie Cosmos, merging her signature lo-fi sound with richer arrangements and deeper lyrical explorations. The album's production, while still retaining a DIY charm, feels more polished, allowing the emotional weight of the lyrics to be fully realized. Tracks like "One Way" showcase her ability to blend catchy melodies with poignant observations about life and love, creating an infectious sound that lingers long after listening.
Lyrically, the album delves into themes of solitude and self-reflection, capturing the zeitgeist of a world grappling with uncertainty. The simplicity of lines paired with profound sentiments reveals a nuanced understanding of the complexities of modern life. Each song feels like a diary entry, inviting listeners into her world while simultaneously allowing them to project their own experiences onto her words.
Overall, "Close It Quietly" is a testament to Frankie Cosmos's growth as an artist, balancing personal narratives with universal truths, all while staying rooted in the indie ethos she has championed since her early days.
Highlights
- Introspective and relatable lyrics that resonate with listeners.
- Catching melodies that showcase her evolution as a songwriter.
- Rich production that enhances the emotional depth of the songs.
Weak points
- Some tracks may feel repetitive in structure to listeners seeking variety.
- The lo-fi aesthetic may not appeal to everyone who prefers a more polished sound.
- Not all songs hit the same emotional highs, leading to occasional pacing issues.
Overall evaluation
"Close It Quietly" solidifies Frankie Cosmos's place in the indie pop scene, showcasing her growth as an artist and songwriter. The album is a heartfelt exploration of personal themes that many can relate to, wrapped in catchy, melodic tunes.
Personal rating: 8/10