Lullabies of Growing Up By Clare Snyder

Released in 2021, Clairo’s album “Sling” took listeners by surprise. Unlike her past albums, “Sling” curates a sense of warmth and introspection, encouraging listeners to linger in the peaceful state that the lyrics and tone evoke. Contrasting with her debut album “Immunity,” filled with indie pop anthems of unrequited love in her youth, “Sling” paints a nuanced picture of inevitable growing pains and newfound appreciations for domesticity in her life. Fostering an intimate sound with soft vocals, feminine lyrics, and satisfying instrumentals, Clairo’s album resembles a lullaby for grown-ups, simultaneously putting listeners in a hazy state of soul-searching and relaxation. Rather than looking at growing up through an angsty lens like some artists do, Clairo cultivates a place of safety for her listeners, openly discussing her internal wars with self-hatred and fatigue in early adulthood. Offering a hand to other young people who may resonate with the same feelings, Clairo opens up a conversation of emotional realness, calling on her listeners to reflect on growing up in a meaningful way.

“Bambi,” the initial track on the album, sets the tone for what is to come. Using a whispering tone and subtle background instrumentals, the intro to “Bambi” resembles driving through a long tunnel on a foggy day, only to feel strong emotional release with her first lyrics sung. “I’m stepping inside a universe designed against my own beliefs.” Even thirty seconds into the first song on “Sling,” it is evident that it is going to be a magical journey, reflecting Clairo’s growth and maturity as an artist. 

Continuing, “Blouse” is particularly impactful, exposing her emotional burnout as a young woman. “Why do I tell you how I feel when you’re just looking down my blouse?” Clairo asks, in an unyielding yet tender way. With aching transparency, Clairo depicts her feelings of being seen but not heard. “Blouse” embodies what “Sling” is meant to represent: growing up, seeing the world for what it truly is, and learning to navigate these new thoughts. Utilizing a simplistic composition, Clairo converts uncomfortable conversations into a means for connection. 

My favorite song on the album, “Harbor,” is similar in nature. Describing her experience with rejection in romantic love, she conveys peaceful acceptance of a situation she cannot change. Paried thoughtfully with her gentle vocals, the delicate guitar leaves listeners in a state of transcendence. Picking up the tempo in the last minute through accelerated instrumentals, a sense of hope is awakened that coexists with the prolonged feelings of heartbreak listeners experienced earlier in the song. Even though the lyrics remain the same, stating “You don’t love me that way,” the vibe shifts in this last minute, into a place of understanding, leaving listeners to sit in melancholic introspection.  

In an age of glamorization and disingenuous displays of emotions, “Sling” stands out as innately human. Beyond just her lyrics, Clairo’s musical choices transport listeners to a unique place, where self-acceptance and vulnerability through raw emotions are something to be celebrated rather than hidden. Clairo emphasizes honesty through her music, promoting human depth and rejecting modernity’s strive for perfection. Clairo’s “Sling” conveys a strong sense of raw sincerity, not just through the lyrics but through all of the vast musical components, nurturing emotional integrity not only for her but for her active listeners. “Sling” reminds listeners to be open to what growing up can teach you and to always embrace sensitivity despite the odds. 

https://www.instagram.com/clairo

By Clare Snyder