Faye Webster's "Underdressed at the Symphony" Album Review

I think the best way to describe Faye Webster's 5th album release would be weird... but in the best way possible. Bossanova and jazzy instrumentals seem to be a recurring theme, lending all the songs a softness, even when tension is deliberately woven into tracks like "But Not Kiss." The song sets its pacing within the first 15 seconds, establishing a fun and stylistic choice that defines the album's character.

A standout track, "Lego Ring," features the album's only guest artist, Lil Yachty. His contribution, both surprising and harmoniously fitting, adds a rich texture to Webster's vocals, making for an enjoyable midpoint in the album. This collaboration more feels like a nod to their childhood friendship than a track meant to fit seamlessly into an overarching theme, but the song adds great depth into an already auditorily deep album.

However, some tracks might seem more like captivating loops than full-fledged songs, offering a repetitive experience. Despite this, "Lifetime" emerges as my personal favorite, encapsulating a surreal and calming essence despite its lyrical ambiguity. It hints at deep connections or missed opportunities, depending on interpretation, but the follow-up track, "He Loves Me Yeah!," leans towards a more optimistic narrative of new love and happiness.

Webster's fusion of bossanova vibes with her indie folk/rock roots gives this album a distinctive stance in the indie music landscape. The title track epitomizes the album's essence—soft vocals and bold instrumentation, with unexpected elements and surprises (similar to the heavy autotune in "Feeling Good Today" earlier in the album). The orchestral inclusion in the title track underscores the album's narrative arc and the quintessential weirdness and creativity that define Faye Webster's music.

"Underdressed at the Symphony" could be seen as a canvas where each song paints a part of a larger story, or it can be seen as an artist's diary of emotions, feelings, and thoughts all compiled into a medium that helps a listener relate just a little bit more. The album's exploration of emotional landscapes through the juxtaposition of soft musical arrangements against the backdrop of subtly introduced yet more complex themes invites listeners into Webster's introspective journey. Her ability to weave vulnerability with a touch of whimsy underscores her unique position in the indie genre. Moreover, the album's production merits attention. The careful layering of instruments by Webster's long time band, alongside her emotive vocals, creates a rich auditory experience that complements the lyrical content.

In conclusion ~

"Underdressed at the Symphony" stands as a testament to Faye Webster's growth as an artist and her unapologetic embrace of the unconventional. It's an album that doesn't just fit neatly into the indie genre; it invites listeners to experience the breadth of Webster's musical and emotional range. Through its narrative of love, heart-break, and self-discovery, the album resonates with a sense of authenticity and creativity that is distinctly Faye, making it a great addition to her discography.

Overall, if I had to rate "Underdressed at the Symphony," I'd give it a 8.15 out of 10. There are definitely some tracks that I'll be adding to my playlists, and it's an album I'm looking forward to spending more time with. It feels like it's the kind of album that will grow on me the more I listen.