The summer of 2024 in pop music is largely influenced by several standout artists. Charli XCX has been at the forefront with her impactful album ‘BRAT’, which continues to gain traction as she gears up for her upcoming tours in the UK and US. Similarly, Chappell Roan has achieved remarkable success with her debut album ‘The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess’, recently topping the UK charts, supported by impressive performances at major music festivals and the hit single ‘Good Luck, Babe!’.
Sabrina Carpenter is also making significant waves on her journey to pop superstardom. Her highly anticipated sixth album, ‘Short n’ Sweet’, follows two transformative years for the 25-year-old. Though she is already well-versed in the music scene, thanks to her Disney Channel beginnings and a music career that started back in 2014, Carpenter truly rose to prominence with her last album, ‘Emails I Can’t Send’, released in 2022. Featuring catchy tracks like ‘Feather’ and the viral hit ‘Nonsense’, the album expanded her fanbase, bolstered by her role as a supporting act on Taylor Swift’s Eras tour and a standout performance at Coachella.
Carpenter solidified her pop star status with the release of two early singles from ‘Short n’ Sweet’. The infectious ‘Espresso’ and the country-influenced ‘Please Please Please’—the latter of which includes a music video featuring her real-life boyfriend, actor Barry Keoghan—have become staples on summer playlists and achieved number one in the UK.
The album ‘Short n’ Sweet’ lives up to its name, presenting a series of 12 catchy, brief pop tracks that highlight Carpenter’s vibrant personality. Her humor and candidness shine through in songs like ‘Juno’, where she sings provocatively, and in ‘Bad Chem’, where she playfully inquires about her lover’s whereabouts. The sun-soaked track ‘Taste’ features Carpenter teasingly addressing a former lover’s new relationship, while ‘Please Please Please’ showcases her frustration and wit in a direct message to a new partner.
The album’s upbeat pop sound is enriched with elements from various genres, including country and folk rock, while catchy choruses and Carpenter’s captivating vocals take center stage throughout the collection. A standout track, ‘Sharpest Tool’, is noted for its unique song structure and introspective lyrics, challenging the notion that Carpenter’s music is solely about fun melodies—she also delivers depth and authenticity.
Overall, ‘Short n’ Sweet’ not only meets expectations but also showcases the charm and personality that have made Sabrina Carpenter a leading figure in contemporary pop music.