Well known for her viral song on Tiktok “Ceilings”, American singer-songwriter Lizzy McAlpine released her 3rd studio album “Older” on April 5 The folk-pop tunes of the album help develop the theme of growth and change. Overall, the album perfectly portrays the change teenagers and young adults go through, making the album all the more enjoyable for high school students.

Throughout the album, McAlpine’s relatable lyrics exceptionally encapsulate the emotions of teenagers. The fifth track on the album, “All Falls Down” uses lyrics such as “Tell me how to keep the time from sticking around” to develop the theme of the fear of getting older and the anxiety about things changing, which is very relatable to most teens. In the sixth track, “Staying”, she highlights how hard it is to let someone go even if he or she is toxic towards you. She sings, “Maybe I would be okay if I let this go forever” to exemplify her struggle. 

McAlpine’s use of folk tunes throughout the album also make her themes more relatable. Throughout the album she uses a blend of guitar and piano tunes. In all the songs, the folk tunes add a wistful atmosphere. The tune throughout the songs helps to develop the theme of anxiety about relationships and getting older, and overall are soothing.

The only downside to this album is the lack of diversity in the songs. Most of the songs of the album have the same theme of growing older and relationships. Additionally, the production and melody of the songs are very repetitive. This album is not one to dance to, but more an album to listen to while studying or in the background due to its calming folky tunes.

Ultimately, McAlpine’s album is a relatable and calming album. The lyrics and the instrumentals help develop the themes, exemplifying all these emotions teens feel. In McAlpine’s album she presents her feelings in a way her listeners can relate to.