A Bold Leap Into Pop Stardom - A Review Of ''So Close To What'' By Tate Mcrae

Hey everyone! In today’s blog, I’ll be reviewing an album that, to my surprise, completely won me over—Tate McRae’s ''So Close to What''. I’ve always admired her talent, but when listening for the first time this album feels like the moment she truly steps into her own. It’s polished, bold, and full of confidence, marking a shift from her earlier, more melancholic sound into something bigger and more refined.

Pictures of the ''So Close To What'' album cover as well as the early leak of the setlist Tate Mcrae released

A New Era for Tate McRae

This album feels like Tate fully embracing her pop-star potential. It’s sleek, high-energy, and packed with sharp hooks, but it still carries that emotional weight she’s always had. The themes revolve around love, self-doubt, and heartbreak, but there’s a newfound maturity in how she delivers them. Instead of just dwelling on emotions, she owns them. Some tracks feel like instant radio hits, while others carry a quiet intensity that lingers long after they end.

Songs That Stuck With Me

Every song on ''So Close To What'' brings something different, but the two that had my immediate attention were:

''Dear god''

This song feels like a midnight confession, raw and unfiltered. It’s a plea for clarity, for something real, for answers she’s not sure she’ll ever get. The stripped-back production makes every lyric hit harder, and the vulnerability in her voice is undeniable. It’s one of those songs that forces you to stop and listen to the meaning behind the lyrics.

''Revolving door''

It's a song that perfectly captures the frustration of being stuck in a cycle you can’t break. The production is smooth and effortless, but there’s a tiredness in Tate’s delivery that makes it feel painfully real. It’s not just about letting someone back in, it’s about knowing it’s a mistake but doing it anyway.

The Evolution of Her Sound

In my opinion, Tate’s vocals have never sounded stronger. She knows when to pull back when to let loose, and when to just let the words breathe. The production is polished but never overwhelming, giving her voice the space to tell the story. Whether it’s the quiet desperation of 'Dear God' or the effortless cool of 'Sports Car,' she proves she can do both vulnerability and confidence, dare I say flawlessly.

Lyricism That Hits Home

The lyrics in this album feel personal yet universal, touching on the complexities of love, self-worth, and growing up all in one. Some songs hit you immediately, while others take a few listens to fully sink in. It’s the kind of songwriting that makes you reflect—not just on Tate’s experiences, but on your own.

Final Thoughts

This album made me see Tate McRae in a whole new light. Before, I saw her as a talented artist still finding her place in the hard world of the music industry—now, I see her as a full-fledged star, continuing her rise to pop royalty. ''So Close To What'' is more than just a catchy pop song; it’s a statement. Even though I had my doubts before listening as it wasn't my usual style, I can’t deny how much I enjoyed it. If this is just the beginning of Tate’s next chapter, I can’t wait to see where she goes next.