Critics have offered mixed reviews on Sabrina Carpenter’s latest album, “Short n’ Sweet,” her sixth release at the age of 25. While some praise it as “smart pop underneath the froth,” others criticize it for lacking “ideas, integrity, and identity.” The album comes after the success of her single “Espresso,” which has significantly boosted her status this summer.
Victoria Segal, writing for the Times, awarded the album four stars, noting that it may not reach the heights of “Espresso” but suggests that Carpenter’s preference is for songs that are “short and a little bitter.” She highlights the album’s exploration of diverse emotions such as lust, sadness, and fury, with most tracks clocking in around three minutes.
In her review for The Independent, Helen Brown acknowledges the pressure the album faces following the success of its lead singles. She describes the album as a confident fusion of genres, including TikTok pop, yacht rock, country, and R&B. Brown praises standout tracks like “Taste,” a polished FM rock piece, and “Coincidence,” which she likens to a modern version of classic folk rock.
El Hunt from The Standard offered a three-star review, characterizing “Short n’ Sweet” as bright and breezy but lacking boldness. She argues that while the album includes a range of influences, many songs feel derivative compared to Carpenter’s standout hits.
Ims Taylor of Clash noted that the album does not quite match the allure of its lead singles. However, she appreciates Carpenter’s heartfelt songwriting, giving it a seven out of ten. Taylor emphasizes that while the overall project may not be as catchy or sensitive as previous work, it still holds solid potential and emotional depth.