I have been a fan of Lizzy McAlpine since her second album “five seconds flat.” I had high expectations, but with her third studio album, “Older,” nothing could be better than this. 

You probably know her hit song “ceilings” which went viral on TikTok back in 2022. Despite her increasing popularity, she has stayed true to her alternative roots. 

McAlpine brought all her best qualities to this album. It has her classic haunting themes and angelic voice, but it also strips everything down and brings a new maturity to her discography. 

This album includes many piano and acoustic guitar ballads that sound like they were written in a bedroom instead of a studio, which gives them an intimate touch. While most of the production is simple, it is still cohesive and uses small details to enhance her songs. 

My favorite track is by far “Drunk, Running.” The chorus ends with the lyric, “Say ‘I love you’ and then drink it backwards.” If you pay close attention, the end of the song plays McAlpine singing “I love you” backward. This small touch to the production takes it from a good song to a masterful one. 

It is clear she has found her sound and is sticking to it. As someone who is about to graduate college, this album about maturing and getting older hits home. 

This album has something for everyone and every moment of life. There are songs for crying and songs for dancing. The album hits emotions of heartbreak, anger and self-hatred but still leaves the listener feeling hopeful by the end. 

I am always shocked that Lizzy McAlpine is not more popular. If you have only heard “ceilings,” I recommend you check out “Older” and the rest of her discography. 

Official Score: 10/10

Categories: Arts & Entertainment