Music > Album Reviews

Pale Waves - Who Am I?

18/01/21

Manchester-based Pale Waves are back with their long-awaited second album, ‘Who Am I?’, the title providing the perfect fit for an album which explores themes of introspection, self-growth, and non-conformity. Visually, it’s clear to see that the aesthetic of the band has changed a lot since their debut – dark, grungy artwork switched for a brighter, nature-laced theme. Listening to the 2000s grungy pop that dominates the album, you are transported back tobeing an angsty teen. Frontwoman Heather states herself that the album’s sound is a cross-between ‘Avril Lavigne and Liz Phair’, and this influence is obvious.

The album kicks off with ‘Change’, immediately showcasing an entirely different sound to the synth-pop/indie-rock that Pale Waves are known for. Reminiscent of Taylor Swift’s earlier albums, ‘1989’ or ‘Red’, ‘Change’ features emotionally charged lyrics layered over a catchy, pop melody, and discusses the irrationality of love and heartbreak.

‘She’s my religion’ features heavy guitar chords, bringing to the album that indie-pop sound fans have come to love. The lyrics, alongside the recent release of its music video featuring front-woman Baron-Gracie and her real-life partner, couple to create a song that is both vulnerable and introspective. Pale Waves have mastered the art of drawing upon personal experiences and then converting it into something universal. ‘Wish U were Here’ and ‘Tomorrow’ embody the grungy, Lavigne sound of the 2000s, encapsulating the feeling of the world being against you.

The second half of the album delves into deeper themes of self-reflection. ‘You don’t own me’ is a stand-out track. Phrases that will sound all too familiar to many women, ‘you should really learn to smile more’, are weaved in alongside a high-energy, catchy refrain to create a powerful feminist anthem. The album finishes with title track, ‘Who am I?’, the stripped-back piano and light acoustic chords leaving the raw, emotion-fuelled vocals to take centre stage. The lyrics alludeto experiences of depression – ‘drowning in my own mind’. This serves as a contrast to the catchy, pop-influenced opening track, demonstrating the range of the band.

Despite this, the first half of the album was I felt, a bit wasted. The lyrics felt samey and the Lavigne influence was overpowering, squandering the band’s unique sense of self that fans have come to love. Whilst some lyrics move away from love and heartbreak, the majority of tracks cling to this theme. I wouldn’t be surprised that this release comes with thecost of potentially disappointing of a few long-standing fans, although the change will no doubt create room for an entirely new fanbase, too.

6/10